KDSB will be also be delivering the Northern Housing Component of the Affordable Housing Program Extended 2009.  The short turn around periods noted with other affordable housing funding has hindered submissions. Phase One’s deadline has passed however KDSB is hoping to encourage expressions of interest from local housing providers for the Phase Two deadline in February 2010 by providing information sessions. Given the results of the 2009 regional social housing consultation, Kenora has confirmed need and it is hoped that local partners will rise to the opportunity.

   Following the July 28, 2009 launch of the Not-for-Profit portion of the Canada Builds Infrastructure Stimulus Fund, the Kenora Fellowship Centre moved quickly to develop their second stage housing project before the August 18^th deadline for submissions. The proposed housing is for eight second stage single room occupancy unit attached to the Fellowship Centre. The submission requirements were challenging and the proposal could not have been developed without the coordinated contribution of so many community volunteers. The expertise speedily provided by the City of Kenora, the Presbyterian Church In Canada and David Neilson ensured that the proposal was solidly based. The proposal is currently under review and response should be provided soon.

   Other community volunteers have also been working to enhance local affordable housing options. Joe Morrison, who has not slowed down in his retirement, is a board member of the Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services (OAHS) which has launched the First Nation, Inuit, Métis Urban & Rural Housing (FIMUR) Assisted Homeownership Program. The program will provide funding through forgivable loans for the purpose of purchasing primary residences for a limited number of eligible self-identifying Aboriginal individuals and families with low- to moderate-income. Applications for this program can be found at www.ontarioaboriginalhousing.ca.