Toronto has 111 new rent-geared-to-income and supportive homes with the opening of the Frankfort Family Reena Residence at 165 Elm Ridge Dr., a project backed by the City, the Province of Ontario and the federal government.
The City of Toronto announced the opening on September 28 alongside Reena, the non-profit organization that owns and operates the building. The residence includes studio to four-bedroom apartments dedicated to people with developmental and physical disabilities, as well as seniors and older adults experiencing cognitive decline or mental health challenges.
Affordable rents and around-the-clock support
Residents will pay no more than 30 per cent of their income, or the shelter allowance portion of their income support benefit, toward rent. Reena will provide 24/7 on-site support and access to wraparound services tailored to each tenant's needs, and is partnering with other non-profit organizations to deliver residential programs in the building.
The building includes 21 accessible units for tenants with significant physical mobility issues, along with indoor and outdoor amenity spaces designed to encourage community and well-being. According to the City, the residence aims to help tenants maintain independence and improve their quality of life.
Funding from all three levels of government
The federal government contributed more than $43.9 million in capital funding through the third phase of the Rapid Housing Initiative, according to a City of Toronto news release. Ontario added $7.7 million, and the City provided $8.1 million in financial incentives through its Rental Housing Supply Program, including waivers of development charges, planning and building fees, and annual property tax exemptions for 99 years.
Private contributions also played a role, with the Reena Foundation providing $20 million and Batay Reena contributing $15 million in equity.
"Our government is proud to invest in supportive housing initiatives like the Frankfort Family Reena Residence that help connect people with the services and care they need," said Michael Parsa, Ontario's Minister of Children, Community and Social Services, in a statement.
"This project will provide much-needed supportive housing in Toronto, helping residents access the stability, dignity and support they need to thrive," Vince Gasparro, Member of Parliament for Eglinton—Lawrence, said in the release.
Local officials said the residence will serve 168 people moving into the building, offering them a permanent, supportive place to call home.
