The federal and provincial governments have announced a combined investment of more than $5.5 million in two affordable housing projects in Windsor and Kingsville.

The Windsor Essex Community Housing Corporation is building Ontario's largest passive house complex at 3100 Meadowbrook Lane. The 145-unit building will be barrier-free and include 46 accessible units. It will include indoor and outdoor shared spaces, a barbecue station and outdoor fitness equipment.

Approximately $5 million of the funding will be directed to this project through various programs, including the Social Infrastructure Fund, the Investment in Affordable Housing program and the Ontario Priorities Housing Initiative. The programs give local communities the flexibility to address their local housing needs by funding new rental construction, home repairs, housing allowances, rent supplements or home ownership.

The money is in addition to previously announced federal funding of $22 million that is being provided under the National Housing Co-Investment Fund. The $39-million project is the first affordable housing building built in Windsor in the past 30 years.

"Our government is investing in affordable housing here in Windsor, in Kingsville and across Canada to help create jobs and improve the quality of life for those who need it most,” said Windsor—Tecumseh MP Irek Kusmierczyk. “With our partners, we are providing a helping hand for individuals and families in need, and in doing so, we are contributing to the economic and social well-being of the entire community."

The second project, in Kingsville, will be a supportive housing complex with four units, and is being built for youth with intellectual disabilities. The project, located at 215 Division Street, is being funded through the Ontario Priorities Housing Initiative and will provide affordable and accessible housing in an established residential neighbourhood that is close to amenities, with supports provided by Community Living Essex County.

The federal government will contribute $358,037 to the project, and the province $168,488.

"Our government knows that a home is the foundation for so much in our lives - it's where we raise our families and build our communities, and we are proud to help create housing opportunities for people in Windsor and Kingsville," said Ontario’s Municipal Affairs and Housing Minister Steve Clark.