GUELPH– A new permanent supportive housing project is coming to Guelph-Wellington, thanks to a unique partnership between three local organizations that deliver services, housing, and supports in the same neighbourhood.
Kindle Communities, a non-profit landlord, is leading the project, which will be supported by the Guelph Community Health Centre (Guelph CHC).
Skyline Group of Companies, a significant rental housing provider in Guelph, plans to donate land in Guelph’s Willow Road area, and will facilitate the apartment development through SkyDev, one of its related companies.
“We are proud to advance this social responsibility initiative in Skyline’s home city of Guelph,” said Jason Ashdown, co-founder and chief sustainability officer of Skyline Group of Companies.
“We’ve seen housing availability become a critical need for Guelph-Wellington over the years, and we are excited at the opportunity to build new housing for those that need it most.”
“We are committed to providing a range of housing in Guelph-Wellington, and to continuing the advancement of developments that directly address the housing crisis. Everyone deserves a safe, affordable place to call home,” adds Greg Jones, president of SkyDev.
Permanent supportive housing is an evidence-based and cost-effective solution for people who are chronically homeless and/or highly vulnerable. Kindle’s Supportive Housing project will pro-vide permanent homes for approximately 30 people who are currently homeless.
Residents will have access to staff member support in the building 24-hours a day, as well as other services that meet their needs.
“Every resident in the building will be supported by the many wrapround health services offered by the Guelph CHC and partners, who will tailor individual support teams to meet their needs,” said Raechelle Devereaux, executive director of Guelph CHC.
In lieu of a kickoff event, project partners released a video announcement about the project on Oct. 16. The video will be available to view at KindleCommunities.com.
“Normally, with a project like this, with three strong project partners and land that is planned to be so generously donated by Skyline, we would have a huge celebration on site. That isn’t possible right now due to COVID-19 restrictions,” said Sheila Markle, CEO of Kindle Communities.
“We are so excited by this project, and by the encouragement we have received from the many stakeholders we shared our plans with.”
The project is in its early planning stages with the City of Guelph and the County of Wellington.
Community members are invited to follow its progress by visiting www.kindlecommunities.com/supportive-housing.
