Helping low-income families move out of community housing into a home of their own
SAULT STE. MARIE — The Ontario government is investing $900,000 in an innovative project in Sault Ste. Marie that will help people move out of community housing and provide training to help social assistance recipients get good jobs.
The District of Sault Ste. Marie Social Services Administration Board will use this funding to buy up to six homes in a state of disrepair and expand a training program at Sault College that teaches Ontario Works clients building and maintenance skills. The students will work with licensed contractors to renovate the homes, which the board will then sell to residents of community housing and low-income community members, helping them become homeowners and freeing up community housing units for other low-income residents.
The Sault College program helps Ontario Works clients learn in-demand skills, make contacts and build confidence to enter the workforce.
Collaborating across ministries and with other levels of government to deliver priorities like housing and employment is part of our government's plan to Build Ontario Together.
The District of Sault Ste. Marie Social Services Administration Board will give qualifying families or individuals a forgivable loan to help with the down payment and Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation insurance. The homes will be sold on a cost-recovery basis, keeping house prices affordable, and the proceeds will be used to buy more homes to renovate and re-sell.