Ford government to build tiny houses for homeless veterans

The Ontario government is providing $200,000 and supporting the transfer of one acre of land in Kingston, Ont., to create 25 tiny houses for military veterans experiencing homelessness, according to a press release issued on Tuesday.

The Ontario government is partnering with the City of Kingston and the Homes for Heroes Foundation to convert a portion of the Kingston Provincial Campus into a veterans’ village.

Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Steve Clark said in the press release these tiny homes will be great for veterans.

"Our veterans, who stepped up to serve our country, deserve a place to call home," said Clark in the press release. "These men and women were there when we needed them, and now it's our turn to provide the support they deserve. Through this innovative housing solution, our government is helping to improve the quality of life of some of Canada's military heroes."

The veterans’ village will be constructed from prefabricated modular housing. Each tiny house will provide transitional housing to one veteran. These tiny houses will be private self-contained units including a kitchen, living room, bathroom, and bedroom.

Mayor of Kingston Bryan Paterson said in the press release he is happy his city will be helping veterans with this veterans’ village.

"We're honoured to be the first city in Ontario to work with Homes For Heroes and the Ontario government to support our veterans through the creation of this innovative project," said Paterson in the press release. "Veterans have given so much to our country and we're looking forward to playing a role in providing stable supportive housing, as these men and women look to reintegrate into our community."

David Howard, the president of Homes for Heroes, said in the press release the veterans’ village will assist veterans in reintegrating into society.

"We are thankful to have the support of the Province of Ontario and the City of Kingston,” said Howard. “Both groups have shown incredible leadership, dedication, and support to end the issue of veteran homelessness. Together we are committed to helping those that once stood on guard for Canada."

Homes for Heroes said there are as many as 5,000 homeless veterans in Canada.

Ontario has initiated the Community Housing Renewal Strategy to sustain, repair, and grow community housing and help end homelessness in the province.

The press release said this project is an example of how Ontario is turning unused provincial properties into affordable housing for people who need it. Ontario will continue to address the housing crisis with innovation, creativity, and new partnerships.