Ontario Construction News staff writer
Embassy Commons, a development including 72 housing units for people living with disabilities and mental health issues, has opened in London.
Owned and operated by Indwell, the development will offer supportive housing at deeply affordable rents for people who have struggled with housing stability, usually because of a mental health disability.
dThe building has accessible common areas with community kitchens, and outdoor amenity spaces for tenants.
Indwell entered into a partnership with LCAC to create and install three large mosaic panels on the exterior of the building. LCAC contracted artist Beth Turnbull Morrish as its Mosaic Art Director to conceive the design, oversee tile production, and install over 12,000 hand made tiles along with her intrepid crew.
“Access to supportive housing is the key to success for many people living with visible and non-visible disabilities,” said Arielle Kayabaga, MP for London West. “Today’s announcement will help reduce the significant barriers faced by London residents living with disabilities in accessing housing and is one of the ways our government is taking important steps to ensure all Canadians have secure and stable homes.”
The federal and provincial governments contributed about $1 million to the project through the Ontario Priorities Housing Initiative (OPHI), an initiative of the Canada-Ontario Bilateral Agreement under the National Housing Strategy.
Additionally, the City of London invested over $5 million and Indwell contributed $2 million.
The National Housing Co-Investment Fund (NHCF) is a program under the National Housing Strategy (NHS) that gives priority to projects that help people who need it most, including women and children fleeing family violence, seniors, Indigenous peoples, people living with disabilities, those with mental health or addiction issues, veterans, and young adults.
“Our government is working hard to help more Ontarians find a home that meets their needs and budgets,” said Steve Clark, housing minister. “These 72 units will make a critical difference in the lives of London residents living with disabilities and mental health issues.
“I am pleased that we were able to work with our partners at all levels of government to help make this project a reality.”