NANAIMO – Seniors, people with disabilities and other people with limited incomes are moving into 85 new affordable rental homes in Nanaimo as two housing projects open in the community.
Fifty-seven affordable rental homes are opening in mid-September for seniors at 77 Mill St
“We are extremely fortunate to have partnered with BC Housing on this latest seniors’ project. We have worked diligently to enable these units to be offered at affordable rents with so many amenities included. Now more than ever, seniors need to be connected in every way possible with family, friends and services, and this project ensures even those at the most modest of income levels have access to those essential connections,” said Andrea Blakeman, chief executive officer of the Nanaimo Affordable Housing Society
In partnership with the Nanaimo Association for Community Living, 28 one-bedroom townhomes will open in mid-September at 3425 Uplands Dr. The project includes 12 accessible homes for people with developmental disabilities. Four full-time staff members will help support residents in their home and provide services according to each individual’s care plan. Monthly rents for these units will be $500. The remaining homes include a live-in manager’s suite and 15 homes, with monthly rents at $880.
Fifty-seven affordable rental homes, including three accessible units, are also opening in mid-September for seniors at 77 Mill St. Operated by the Nanaimo Affordable Housing Society, the one-bedroom homes have monthly rents ranging from $935 to $1,135. Rents include services such as phone, internet, cable and laundry.
“This project represents the continued evolution of services for people with diverse abilities; a movement towards inclusion and honouring that the people we serve want and deserve housing options that are as diverse as they are. For many clients, it is the realization of a lifelong dream; a home of their very own,” said Randy Humchitt, deputy executive director, Nanaimo Association for Community Living
Funding for the project at 3425 Uplands Dr.: The Province provided $4.9 million in capital funding and $1.9 million in construction financing, the City of Nanaimo provided $95,000 in municipal waivers and the Nanaimo Association for Community Living provided the land.
Funding for the project at 77 Mill St.: The Province provided $8 million in capital funding and $3.3 million in construction financing and the Nanaimo Affordable Housing Society provided the land.