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Top 5 things to know about Vaughan’s new affordable housing residence for adults, seniors in need

Yorkreigon.com
July 13, 2021

1- First residents moving in July

The first residents will be moving in July into the newly built six-storey Lou Fruitman Reena Residence, which will be offering affordable and supportive housing for 136 adults and seniors with diverse needs, including those with developmental disabilities, mental health challenges and physical disabilities.

2- Construction began in 2019

It was developed by Reena, a non-profit organization serving individuals with developmental disabilities since 1973.

Also, after kicking off the construction in the fall of 2019, the Lou Fruitman Reena Residence was finally opened July 7 at 919 Clark Ave. W.

Premier Doug Ford, King-Vaughan MP Deb Schulte, who is also minister of seniority, and Vaughan Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua are some of the officials who have attended the inauguration ceremony.

3- 18 units for residents with complex health needs

With units ranging from bachelor to four-bedroom, the residence will also include 18 units that are designed with the needs of individuals with complex health needs in mind, including units with built-in ceiling tracks, specialized kitchens, washrooms, door openers and more.

4- Federal government investing $17.9M, Ontario $3 million

King-Vaughan MP Deb Schulte, who is also minister of seniors, announced more than $17.9 million investment by the federal government to residence on behalf of Ahmed Hussen, minister of families, children and social development, during inauguration day.

“Everyone, including those living with disabilities, deserve an affordable place to call home,” Schulte said.

“The housing investment we have announced today will assist those living with disabilities in Thornhill, a priority group under our government’s National Housing Strategy,” she added.

This funding is being delivered through CMHC’s National Housing Co-Investment Fund (NHCF), which supports new and revitalization construction of mixed-income, mixed-tenure, and mixed-use affordable housing. The NHCF is a key pillar of the Government of Canada’s National Housing Strategy (NHS).

5- Access to 24-hour-a-day supports

Tenants will have access to 24-hour-a-day supports and be a part of the broader Vaughan community. They will be enjoying recreation, employment, community life and spiritual engagement of their choosing.