Project will become home to 2 area families in the spring of 2024, says Habitat for Humanity.
Applications are now open for individuals and families to apply for the two semi-detached houses at 369 Muskoka Beach Rd. in Gravenhurst, built by Habitat for Humanity Ontario Gateway North (OGN) to tackle the affordable housing crisis.
Groundbreaking for the houses is scheduled to begin in June. When complete, this project will become home to two area families in the spring of 2024.
Speaking at last Thursday’s Ignite Gravenhurst event, Wendy Carrothers, OGN’s program manager, family partnerships, announced, “We have some great news for this community. Applications are now open for individuals and families for two energy-efficient, affordable homes right here in Gravenhurst.blob:https://rampupmuskoka.ca/97f853c0-f55b-47cc-aaac-74b3d77eda5c
“These families will join the 75 families, including 122 children across our Ontario Gateway North territory, who have built strength, stability and self-reliance through the Habitat affordable housing program,” said Carrothers.
At just over 900 square feet, the two-bedroom homes will be energy efficient, suitable for individuals or small families, and with universal accessibility, will be built for equity and inclusivity, according to Habitat for Humanity OGN.
“We’re building at a time when the need for affordable housing has never been greater,” said Kimberley Woodcock, chief executive officer of Habitat for Humanity Ontario Gateway North.
“The Canadian Rental Housing Index tells us that the proportion of renter household income spent on rent and utilities in Gravenhurst is a shocking 57 per cent — almost twice what the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation defines as affordable, so we’re anticipating overwhelming interest in this project from area families.”
Habitat has been partnering with community-based organizations such as Gravenhurst Against Poverty to highlight the fundamental needs of working families in the community. Gravenhurst Against Poverty chair Bonnie Dart, offers her support.
“It’s no small achievement during this current housing crisis to offer affordable homes to lower-income families,” said Dart. “Thank you for the tremendous efforts of your staff and volunteers in bringing this project to life.”
Selection criteria include the need for affordable housing, the ability to make affordable monthly payments, and the ability and willingness to partner with Habitat for Humanity, including completing 500 volunteer hours.
Those who meet the initial requirements will be contacted and asked to complete a full application, which includes a credit and criminal background check.
The first step for individuals and families interested in applying for consideration as a partner family for the Gravenhurst project is completing the eligibility questionnaire at habitatgatewaynorth.com/eligibility-questionnaire.
Gravenhurst Banner – Wednesday, February 22, 2023