While there’s an abundance of construction occurring in the area nowadays, next spring will see a very special new build.
“We are planning to break ground on two new Habitat homes in Midland next spring,” said Kimberley Woodcock, CEO for Habitat for Humanity Ontario Gateway North.
The plan involves constructing a semi-detached home at 808 Birchwood Drive that will add two affordable, universally-accessible homes to the Midland supply while serving two families coping with mobility challenges.
"The Town of Midland donated the land to the North Simcoe Chapter of Habitat for Humanity in 2016," Woodcock said, adding volunteers are now needed to help with fundraising.
"We're planning to break ground in the spring of 2021 so the current focus is fundraising as opposed to building. Volunteers willing to raise funds in support of the build would be most welcome over the winter months!"
Acording to Habitat’s regional chapter, the need for affordable housing in North Simcoe is undeniable with more than 52% of tenant households forced to spend close to a third of their household income on accommodation. Coupled with a rapidly aging demographic, the limited supply of affordable, accessible housing keeps vulnerable people in Midland at risk.
“Our 2020 build project looks beyond the construction of our homes to the well-being of our residents with special needs,” the agency outlined in a report. “Not only do these new affordable homes ensure a low cost of operating, but the homes are also compliant with universal design.
“We are removing environmental barriers to provide a sense of possibility, freedom and hope for people currently isolated and limited by an inaccessible home.”
Established in 2000, the North Simcoe Chapter of Habitat for Humanity is entirely volunteer driven.
“North Simcoe chapter members bring a wide variety of relevant experience and expertise to the volunteer roles required to deliver a Habitat home and serve a Habitat homeowner, including real estate development and acquisition, construction, fundraising, marketing and communications, and family support services,” the local chapter noted.
To date, the chapter has successfully completed six homes in Midland, Penetanguishene, and Tay Township.
For more information and to find out ways to help, email [email protected].
