The provincial and federal governments announced on September 9 that they will invest a combined $8.4 million into two affordable-housing buildings in London.

Construction on the first, the Residenza Ortona, is now complete. The building is a 3.5-storey, fully accessible apartment complex located at 1090 Hamilton Road in southeast London. It includes 54 affordable housing units.

A partnership between London’s Housing Development Corporation and the Royal Canadian Legion will ensure that as many as 10 of the units are dedicated to veterans with supports as well as a dedicated common area for programming.

The building features a wheelchair ramp, modified units and elevator and is located near essential services such as grocery stores, transit and medical care.

"The best results come from working together, and this important investment in London is an example of the good things that can happen when we all come together to help those at risk of homelessness, including veterans,” said Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Steve Clark. “Supporting projects like these is one way we are helping to make our community housing system more efficient and sustainable, and to ensure that people can access the housing and supports they need today, and in the years to come." 

A second complex, located at 440 Clarke Road, will include 33 affordable housing units for seniors, persons with disabilities, recent immigrants, low-income residents and those with mental health and addiction issues.

The barrier-free building is located in east London, just north of Dundas Street. It will include as many as 65 one- and two-bedroom units, a shared green space and a common room for tenants, and is located close to amenities such as public transit and shopping.

"Struggling Canadians need a home that meets their needs and that they can afford. This new rental housing development will add vitally needed affordable homes, giving more people in our community the opportunity to have the housing and services that will allow them to thrive here in London,” said Peter Fragiskatos, MP for London North Centre.

Funding for both properties is being delivered through the joint federal and provincial Investment in Affordable Housing program and the Ontario Priorities Housing Initiative. Both programs give communities the flexibility to address their local housing needs by funding new rental construction, home repairs, housing allowances, rent supplements or home ownership.