A housing development aimed at providing affordable housing to those facing chronic homelessness is nearing completion in Saint John, N.B. Construction has been underway since last year and the new complex is expected to open in the fall. The complex, the House of Meritt, will have 12 units. “These units will provide vulnerable women with safe, secure environments to help rebuild independence,” says the province in a news release. David Hickey, the minister responsible for the provincial housing corporation, points to the housing crisis in the release. “The status quo is unacceptable and all levels of government need to be responding with the urgency it deserves,” he says. Multiple levels of government contributed to funding the House of Meritt’s construction. The federal government, the City of Saint John, community partners and the province have spent a combined total of more than $3.7 million on the project. The New Brunswick government spent $840,000 through the Affordable Rental Housing Program, according to the release. The program aims to provide funding for the creation of basic affordable units that would rent at or below average market costs. Saint John-Kennebecasis MP Wayne Long says supporting the House of Meritt is a significant step in delivering housing for those in need. “I’m proud of our involvement in this project, and of the tangible difference it will make for people in this community,” he says. For more New Brunswick news, visit our dedicated provincial page.
