Ottawa funding redevelopment of long-vacant Rubin Block in South Osborne

The historic Rubin Block will turn into transitional housing following an investment from Ottawa.

The federal government is beefing up funding for housing throughout Manitoba – including a long-vacant apartment block in Winnipeg’s South Osborne area.

Ottawa is shelling out $9.1 million to help Fisher River Cree Nation redevelop the historic Rubin Block into transitional homes for families in need.

“This type of initiative will provide wraparound support services for the residents, which we believe is something that’s really needed,” said Fisher River Cree Nation Chief David Crate.

The plans include on-site access to social services, childcare, and workplace training programs.

Construction on the block’s redevelopment began in October 2024 and is expected to be completed by May 2026.

The Rubin Block was built more than 100 years ago, but has sat vacant since 2014 after a fire ripped through it.

There has been public outcry to fix the building and convert it into affordable housing.

In 2019, the building was added to the National Trust for Canada’s top 10 list of endangered buildings.

The redevelopment is one of 105 housing projects that will be backed by the federal government.

- With files from CTV’s Devon McKendrick