Community Living Huntsville (CLH) has received a significant boost to safe, affordable, and accessible housing for people with developmental disabilities in the region.
The organization has received $345,000 from the Government of Canada through Reaching Home: Canada’s Homelessness Strategy under the Rural and Remote Homelessness stream. The program is administered locally by United Way Simcoe Muskoka.
According to officials, the funding will support renovations at CLH’s home at 18 Main St. W. Locally known as Floral Villa, the property has been operated by CLH as a home for people with developmental disabilities since 1990.
Once complete, the project will create at least three apartments, including one fully accessible unit, as well as shared office space and a communal kitchen.
“We want – and need – to be part of the solution for dignified, accessible, and affordable housing in our community,” said Executive Director of CLH Suzanne Willett. “These renovations will breathe new life into this aging home and provide better opportunities for people to live as included community members where everyone belongs, while improving accessibility and meeting building standards.”
The non-profit organization will oversee the renovation project with qualified contractors. Officials said work is expected to be completed by March 2027.
Willett said the funding will help address much-needed repairs to the more than 100-year-old building while advancing the organization’s commitment to inclusive housing.
“I am grateful that this grant will help fund essential repairs and improvements to a home that is more than 100 years old and in need of a lot of costly work,” she said. “Housing is a critical part of creating a community of belonging, especially for adults with developmental disabilities who face some of the longest wait times and most significant barriers to safe, affordable homes.”
While celebrating the investment, officials said additional funding is still required to complete the full renovation project.
For more information, or to donate, visit clhuntsville.ca.
