Unique construction project underway to tackle Barrie's housing crisis

Housing advocates in Barrie are applauding the start of construction on a unique multi-million-dollar supportive housing project to help tackle the city's housing crisis.
The Salvation Army Ontario Division fronted $500,000 and the land for the two-storey building that will include 12 fully furnished, two-bedroom units for families in crisis.
On Tuesday morning, crews started work on the new development behind the Salvation Army's Citadel Church at 151 Lillian Crescent.
The over 14,000 square feet of supportive housing units will provide short-term relief for families working on getting back on their feet.
The facility will also be somewhere for families to get support from outreach workers and others who share their struggles.
The project is a joint initiative between Redwood Park Communities, a Barrie-based charity, and The Salvation Army.
"We are so happy to see this building becoming a reality through the generosity of our community and this support from The Salvation Army," said Tim Kent, co-founder and CEO of Redwood Park Communities.
"Like any housing project, it is really about people and the positive impact of having a safe, affordable, hopeful place to call home," Kent added.
Construction is anticipated to be completed by next summer.
-
Capital Pride 'well on track' for August festival, but still seeking volunteers
After two summers of pandemic restrictions, Capital Pride is preparing for a major return to Ottawa streets in few weeks, and volunteers are still needed. However, executive director Toby Whitfield says organizers are prepared for the 2022 festival. -
Many public servants in Ottawa opposed to return to office plans
For more than two years, federal public servants have been doing their jobs from home. Now, amid pressure to return to the office, they’re asking why that needs to change. -
Health officials order Banff landlord to clean up rental home with dozens of tenants
Health officials have ordered a Banff landlord to clean up dangerous living conditions found at her rental home, where beds for 42 people were found. -
Shortage of student housing in Timmins prompts Northern College to ask for help
As colleges and universities prepare to welcome students in September, the pressure is on when it comes to the housing supply. -
Orioles hit 4 homers in 7-4 victory over Blue Jays
Ramon Urias hit a three-run homer in the first inning, and Anthony Santander, Ryan Mountcastle and Austin Hays also went deep to lift the Baltimore Orioles to a 7-4 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays on Monday. -
Emergency food bank in Sudbury in desperate need of donations
An emergency food bank is reaching out to Greater Sudbury residents to help them help people in need. -
Ontario Cannabis Store unable to make deliveries after partner faces cyberattack
The Ontario Cannabis Store says a cyberattack faced by one of its logistics partners has left the provincial pot distributor unable to deliver orders to marijuana shops and customers. -
'I will not be intimidated': B.C. MLA facing recall petition from anti-mandate crowd
An NDP MLA from B.C.'s Southern Interior is facing a recall petition spearheaded by constituents who are frustrated by the government's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. -
Canadian Blood Services' donor base at 10-year low, prompting urgent call for donations
Canadian Blood Services is facing a dire situation, with its donor base and blood supply reaching the lowest level they’ve been in nearly a decade.