The provincial government is providing agencies in Thunder Bay with over nine million dollars to assist in the creation of more supportive housing units.

Municipal Affairs and Housing Minister Paul Calandra was in the city to make the announcement.

Shelter House and NorWest Community Health Centres will use $4,179,000 to create 17 units.

This will renovate an existing two-story building on Donald Street.

It will include several private offices for programming, a meeting room, dining space and a clinic area with private exam rooms.

St. Joseph’s Care Group and Northern Linkage are getting $3,045,000 for 22 long-term supportive housing units on Brock Street for individuals with mental health issues.

They will receive 24/7 support provided by the St. Joseph’s Care Group.

Each floor will provide a shared kitchen, dining area, lounge area, staff room, washrooms, laundry facilities, and storage.

Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services is receiving $1,300,000 for four units for Indigenous individuals with mental health and addiction issues.

This will be part of the Services housing project on Huron Avenue.

The site proposes a multi-family complex consisting of two 3-storey apartment buildings containing 12 units per building.

The Elizabeth Fry Society of Northwestern Ontario will develop nine units for individuals at risk of homelessness within an existing home on Archibald Street with the funding of $714,000.

“Our government is making it easier for our partners to build homes of all types, faster,” says Calandra

“Increasing community, affordable, and supportive housing is a critical component of our goal to get at least 1.5 million new homes built by 2031, which will help all Ontarians, especially our most vulnerable, find a home that meets their needs.”