Habitat for Humanity Northumberland is making history with its largest-ever project: seven affordable net zero townhouses at 4751 Highway 45 in Baltimore. Slated for completion by spring 2025, the $2.5 million initiative is Canada’s first net zero Habitat development.
CEO Cathy Borowec tells us the project is nearing completion.
The project, in partnership with ZON Engineering and Community Power Northumberland, reflects Habitat’s commitment to sustainable housing solutions. “This dream project is an ideal example of how we’re putting our strategic plan into action,” said David Lester, Chair of Habitat Northumberland’s Board. The 2023-2025 plan focuses on tackling housing insecurity and fostering community partnerships.
A capital campaign that ran from January 2023 to February 2024 raised $427,000 towards the development. Seven families have been selected for the homes and are completing Habitat’s signature sweat equity program, contributing time and effort to the build.
Beyond building homes, Habitat Northumberland is hoping to expand it’s home repair programs for low- to moderate-income residents through which it has supported over 150+ households.
According to Borowec, their focus is on making homes safe and helping folks stay in their homes.
Whether it’s adapting a home to accommodate a senior who needs the front steps repaired, or accessibility improvements like adding a ramp or a hand-rail, Habitat’s home repair program can help.
Another initiative that will continue in the new year is free construction training through a partnership with the Community Training and Development Centre. The Residential Construction Finishing Trades program combines online learning, hands-on experience, and job placements, empowering participants to start careers in the trades.
Habitat is also preparing a new build in Cobourg at 604 Daintry Crescent. Borowec tells us that volunteers remain vital to these efforts.
Volunteers support Habitat through fundraising, ReStore operations, as well as build site activities.
For more information, visit HOME | Habitat for Humanity Northumberland | Affordable Housing.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)