While disappointed Project Tiny Hope did not receive federal funding, YWCA St. Thomas Elgin executive director Lindsay Rice stresses the announcement is not a setback.
The financial ask had been $6.7 million.
The total project cost of the ambitious undertaking – which YWCA executive director Lindsay Rice refers to as “more than just housing, it’s a new beginning” – comes in at $14.7 million.
Now, advises Rice, it means a return to the original game plan.
She added, “we are enthusiastic about our next steps to re-align our funding strategy to meet our goal of building affordable housing for youth at risk of homelessness, supports for women with young families, and connections for seniors living on their own.”
The undertaking will accommodate 40 tiny homes, a program house, play areas, resident gardens and green space.
Rice tells myFM, now more than ever the partnership with Doug Tarry Homes and Sanctuary Homes will be calling on the community for support.
Under the original plan, the first 10 residents were scheduled to move in by the end of next year. Rice says the lack of federal dollars may not necessarily delay that move-in date.
The project is to be a mix of one, two and three-bedroom rental units which will accommodate adults, youth and families.
In the support case for the undertaking released in December of last year, it was noted “Each tiny home will be equipped with a full kitchen, bathroom, laundry, private bedrooms and living room providing dignity and comfort.”
Rice stresses people really want to be involved with this much-needed housing initiative.
She added, “We are so grateful to the community for their ongoing support and proud to have so many generous donors.
For more information and to donate, visit https://ywcaste.ca/project-tiny-hope/
