By Christmas, two families will be moving into affordable, energy-efficient, universally
accessible homes in the Township of Muskoka Lakes. Habitat for Humanity Ontario Gateway North (OGN) celebrated on Friday, June 10th with a groundbreaking ceremony that marked the official launch of the construction of the two homes at 1016 Elm Street in Bala.
The ceremony, attended by a contingent of Habitat supporters, included representatives from the Muskoka Lakes Adopt-A-Home Committee, councillors in the Township of Muskoka Lakes, a member from the Township’s Attainable Housing & Heritage Committee, major donors, and OGN team members.
“We’re building so much more than just houses in this community,” says Kimberley Woodcock, Habitat for Humanity Ontario Gateway North CEO. “Affordable housing represents safety, stability,and independence for these families, who also benefit from improved education, employment outcomes, and mental and physical health. But more than this, every Habitat home generates over
$200,000 in social benefits for the community. That motivates and inspires us.”
Thanks to government funding and donations from the community more than $450,000 has been raised in support of the project – called Building Futures in Bala – to date. “Partnerships are key,” continues Woodcock. “Area businesses have stepped up and generated much-needed products that will support the completion of these homes. For example, Muskoka Window and Door will be providing a full window and door package, installed, New Start Kitchens has donated 75% of two kitchens, one for each home, and Sifft Electric has committed to a 40% discount on their services. We are in discussions with many more local businesses that are keen to help. This really is a community effort.”
The financial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic have raised the cost of construction and the budget for these affordable Habitat homes, significantly increasing the challenge of completion. Fundraising efforts will continue throughout construction. To find out how you can help, contact Kimberley Woodcock at ceo@habitatgatewaynorth.com.
At under 900 square feet, these two-bedroom homes are suitable for singles, couples, small families, and seniors.
Those interested in experiencing strength, stability, and self-reliance of a stable and
affordable home through Habitat for Humanity in Bala, are invited to visit
https://www.habitatgatewaynorth.com/affordablehousing for more information and to apply.
[…] “We broke ground on Bala last year,” Cake said. “We got the house closed in in the winter, and they’re finishing the interior fixtures now. Then we move on to our building in Gravenhurst this year, so that money is really important to building homes for families.” […]