With a provincial funding commitment now in place, nearly three dozen chronically unhoused Guelph and/or Wellington residents will soon have a place to call home on a permanent basis.
The funds – $9 million over three years – are included in the 2024 provincial budget announced on Monday. That money will be used to provide permanent supportive housing and wrap-around services at 10 Shelldale, a project headed by Kindle Communities, the Guelph Community Health Centre and Stonehenge Therapeutic Community (STC).
“This funding is the last critical piece of the puzzle to making this innovative project successful,” said Melissa Kwiatkowski, CEO of Guelph CHC, in a news release. “I am grateful for the support and recognition of the government, and particularly Minister (Sylvia) Jones, for recognizing the importance of this project and making this investment in our community.”
With operational funding now lined up, project officials are working toward opening the 32-unit project – located at 10 Shelldale Cres. in the Onward Willow neighbourhood – this coming June.
Each of the units are to be at least 400 square feet in size, taking up the second through fifth storeys. The main level is to include common amenity space and office area.
Support services, including for mental health and addictions issues, are to be available on-site 24/7.
Oh.
— Mayor Cam Guthrie (@CamGuthrie) March 26, 2024
My.
Goodness!
Thank you @PBethlenfalvy, @SylviaJonesMPP, @RobFlackEML & @fordnation!! This is absolutely incredible news! So many individuals are going to be helped due to this funding! Thank you to everyone locally that advocated, including @MikeSchreiner! #Budget2024 pic.twitter.com/FqhGKyFEiu
“We are so grateful for this funding from the provincial government, through the Ministry of Health, which will make a meaningful difference in the Guelph community,” said Kristin Kerr, STC’s CEO, in the release. “I am equally grateful for the many advocates and partners who helped make this project successful.”
Project construction began in September of 2022 and the building was initially expected to open last fall, but was pushed back as a result of labour and supply shortages. That work is now in its “final stages” and the hiring of staff is underway, the release notes.
“It has been an honour and an inspiration to work with so many generous and courageous leaders on this project,” said Daria Allan-Ebron, CEO of Kindle Communities, in the release. “I cannot express the extent of my gratitude and thanks to everyone who has helped make this project a success.”
