Two provincial announcements in Windsor, worth $4.8-million, will help those experiencing homelessness and those at risk.
The first involves a three-storey walk-up at Wyandotte Street East and Fairview Avenue.
The Ontario government is investing $3-million to buy and renovate the building, creating 11 permanent affordable housing units. Rent revenues will cover operating costs.
"Increasing our affordable housing in Riverside, near groceries, services, and parks, will help keep our families together," said Windsor-Tecumseh MPP Andrew Dowie.
The project will create a longer-term housing solution under the Windsor Essex Housing and Homelessness Master Plan, approved by Windsor City Council.
A second project on the other side of the city will create 26 supportive housing units for vulnerable populations, including Indigenous people, those with disabilities, and residents at risk of becoming homeless.
The province is investing $1.8-million to convert an old office building on Sandwich Street between Detroit Street and Mill Street.
The building is owned and operated by the Association for Persons with Physical Disabilities of Windsor-Essex County Foundation and is close to public busing, parks, shopping, pharmacies, a library, and employment opportunities.
"Supporting innovative solutions like these new supportive housing units in Windsor is critical as we work to keep our most vulnerable safe and housed," said Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Steve Clark.
Both projects highlight the use of existing buildings to create fast solutions to the affordable housing crisis.
"There's no easy or one-size-fits-all solution to solving the housing crisis," said Mayor Drew Dilkens. "It's a complex issue that requires a whole-of-government approach to address diverse community needs."