Joe Preston, MP Elgin Middlesex London; Vic Morris, LIFT; Hon. John Gerrestsen, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing; Susan Eagle, London Councillor; Deb Matthews, MPP London North Centre; Hon. Monte Solberg, Minister of Human Resources Skills Development Canada.

LONDON – Canada’s New Government and the Government of Ontario today announced almost $173 million in funding to create more than 2,700 new affordable housing units in 41 towns and cities across Ontario under the Canada-Ontario Affordable Housing Program Agreement.

The announcement was made by the Honourable Monte Solberg, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development Canada and the Honourable John Gerretsen, Ontario’s Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

“Canada's New Government is working to give Canadians access to safe and affordable housing,” said Minister Solberg. “We are pleased to work with our partners in both the public and private sector to help individuals, seniors, and families in Ontario who are working towards building a better and stronger future.”

“The McGuinty government is proud to continue making major investments in new affordable housing across the province,” said Minister Gerretsen. “Supporting affordable housing for Ontario’s most vulnerable families is an important part of our plan for building stronger communities.”

Today’s announcement was made at the London Innercity Faith Team (LIFT) King Street Project, a future affordable housing apartment complex in London. The $3.25 million project, which includes $1.93 million from the Canada-Ontario Affordable Housing Program, will result in 30 apartment units for low-income individuals, including people with disabilities. With today’s announcement, London will receive more than $12 million in new funding under the Canada-Ontario Affordable Housing Program.

“This funding is very important to all Londoners, as we continue to combat homelessness in our community and beyond,” says London Mayor Anne Marie DeCicco-Best. “We know there is a critical need for more affordable housing, not just here in London, but right across the country. And, this renewed commitment to the Canada-Ontario Affordable Housing Program is a pivotal step toward realizing a national solution.”

“LIFT is pleased that its partnership with member churches, individuals, corporations and with all levels of government will create this permanently affordable housing needed for our low income residents,” said Vic Morris, Chair of LIFT Council.

The new Canada-Ontario Affordable Housing Agreement includes a commitment of $301 million from each of the two levels of government. The agreement brings the total amount invested in affordable housing in Ontario by federal, provincial and municipal governments to at least $734 million over the life of the program. This will mean assistance to some 20,000 households under the Affordable Housing Agreement.