Ontario creates transitional housing for Thunder Bay Indigenous youth

THUNDER BAY, ONT. — A new three-storey building being built in Thunder Bay, Ont. will create 58 transitional housing units for Indigenous youth.

The Ontario government is contributing $8.7 million through the Indigenous Supportive Housing Program for the project.

The Junot Avenue Indigenous Youth Transition House Project, which includes single and pod-style accommodations, will be managed by the Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre.

The funding was announced Aug. 27 by Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Steve Clark.

The Ontario government is spending an additional $202 million each year on provincial homelessness prevention programs, bringing Ontario’s total yearly spend to close to $700 million, states a release, adding this includes an increase of $11 million through the Homelessness Prevention Program for Thunder Bay, for a total of $16.5 million annually.

“Today’s announcement is a significant step towards compassion, understanding and empowerment for Indigenous youth at risk of homelessness,” said Margaret Froh, president of the Métis Nation of Ontario, in a statement. “The Junot Avenue Indigenous Youth Transition House Project will serve vulnerable youth grappling with housing instability who rightfully deserve a chance at recovery, healing and a brighter future.”