Moishe Alexander’s Review:

DUTTON, February 28, 2009 — The Government of Canada, the Government of Ontario, and the Municipality of Dutton/Dunwich today celebrated the opening of 30 new affordable rental units. This project is supported by over $2 million in funding through the Canada-Ontario Affordable Housing Program.

Joe Preston, Member of Parliament for Elgin – Middlesex – London, on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada, and Minister responsible for the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation; the Honourable Steve Peters, Member of Provincial Parliament for Elgin – Middlesex – London, on behalf of the Honourable Jim Watson, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing; Graham Warwick, Warden for the County of Elgin; and Bonnie Vowel, Mayor of the Municipality of Dutton/Dunwich attended the ceremony.

“The Government of Canada is committed to making affordable housing available in Ontario and across Canada for those who need it most,” said MP Preston. “Seniors in Dutton will now have access to quality, affordable housing and the services that meet their specific needs, while remaining close to their families and friends in the community.”

“The Affordable Housing Program is helping people who live on lower or fixed incomes stay in their home communities,” said MPP Peters. “Ontario is working with its partners to grow the supply of affordable housing.”

Today’s announcement recognized the official opening of Dutton Caledonia Two, a 30-unit complex sponsored by Dutton and District Lions Non-profit Housing Inc. The $4 million project received over $2 million under the Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program. The units will be occupied by seniors.

The federal and provincial allocations to the project were complemented by over $600,000 in municipal financial incentives.

“I am very excited to share the vision of the Dutton/Dunwich Lion’s Club and local residents to see additional housing for our seniors in our area. The Dutton Caledonia TWO complex will be enjoyed now and for many years to come,” said Mayor Vowel. “I am thankful to all who have put their time and efforts into this worthy project.”

The Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program comprises a commitment of $301 million from each of the two senior levels of government. In total, the federal, provincial and municipal governments will invest at least $734 million in the program, which will provide affordable housing for up to 20,000 households in Ontario. Under the AHP, every region in Ontario has been allocated a specific amount of funding to assist low to moderate-income rental households to purchase affordable homes through interest-free down payment assistance loans.

For more information, please see:

http://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/en/corp/nero/nere/2009/2009-02-28-1100.cfm