The intersection of Charles and Isaac streets in Wiarton is now home to “Miracle Place.”
It’s a six unit, two-storey development built by Harold Bye Construction, that provides affordable housing to 13 tenants.
There was a low-key opening held Friday at the Salvation Army Church in Wiarton to celebrate the completion of a project that was six years in the making.
Captain Mary Millar of the Wiarton Salvation Army helped form the vision for this project as she saw a huge need for affordable housing in the area.
She says there were many obstacles to overcome — including funding shortages, land availability and endless negotiations.
Eventually, land was donated by the Salvation Army, and construction began in March of last year and was completed by early December at a cost of 950 thousand dollars.
The project was funded with 420 thousand dollars from the Canada-Ontario Affordable Housing Program, a 450 thousand dollar mortgage and 30 thousand dollars raised by the community.
Bruce County Manager of Housing Services Susan Earle says she’s thrilled to see Miracle Place provide affordable housing for 13 tenants — but hopes this is just the beginning.
Earle is part if the Yes In My Backyard — or Y.I.M.B.Y. team — which helps to bring affordable housing where its needed in the region…and she says the need is huge.
Miracle Place tenant Laurie Watkins says getting affordable housing was huge for her as a single parent — and she feels the whole community came together for this project.
