The City of St. John’s has seen an influx of inquiries since they unveiled a campaign to help boost interest in affordable housing options.
Last week, the city unveiled the ‘Opening the Right Door Can Change Your Life’ campaign, which highlights some of the available units. Many of those are larger three or four bedroom spaces.
Deputy Mayor Sheilagh O’Leary—council’s lead on housing—revealed at this week’s meeting that since the campaign was launched, they’ve noted a spike in interest.
They have received over 100 inquires from people about the units. She believes it shows that not everyone was aware that the city offered affordable housing. Now, she says, they’ve opened the door to explore more opportunities to ensure that people have access to what the city has to offer.
City Slates $60,000 for Housing Projects
Meanwhile, the city of St. John’s has announced $60,000 in funding for a number of housing projects.
In total, seven organizations have been given grants from ranging from $5,000 to $10,000, which will aid in developing housing solutions that will enhance the quality of life for residents.
• Fundamental Inc.: a net-zero ready affordable tiny home prototype unit – $10,000
• Power Brothers Inc.: design costs to make affordable housing units accessible as part of retrofit build – $10,000
• Stella’s Circle Community Services: consultant costs to expand housing portfolio and maximize current units/land – $10 000
• L’Arche Avalon: floor plan design for the construction of two homes and a day centre -$10,000
• Connections for Seniors: supportive housing needs assessment for older adults – $10,000
• NL Gray Gays: housing and care needs assessment for LGBTQI2S community – $5000
• Universal Design Network: universal design education – $5000
Sheilagh O’Leary says this year they saw a great increase in applications for the program, which she attributes to more coverage of the program in the media and conversations in council chambers.
She says that “knowledge is power,” and when that information gets out there people can avail of it.