Low-interest mortgages will help organization preserve two affordable housing properties

The North End Community Health Centre is getting help to preserve two affordable housing properties.

Through the new Community Housing Acquisition Program, the province is providing a $2.45-million low-interest mortgage to purchase a 20-unit building in north-end Halifax and a $570,000 low-interest mortgage to purchase a 12-unit property in Dartmouth.

In addition, the province will also be funding supportive housing services that could include support for maintaining the unit, referrals to harm reduction programs and mental health and addictions services, and life stability and system navigation supports.

The Department of Community Services will cover $209,000 in annual funding for operations, on-site supports and services for the building in Halifax and $96,000 for the Dartmouth property.

The North End Community Health Centre’s CEO says this will provide supportive housing to those who would otherwise be experiencing homelessness.

“This collaborative effort will ensure 32 people not only have a roof over their heads but also receive the supports they need to remain housed in a dignified way,” Marie-France LeBlanc said in a news release.

The Community Housing Acquisition Program allows non-profit organizations and other community housing providers to access up to $10 million in repayable loans so they can purchase existing rental units.

Financing is available for up to a 30-year term at fixed interest rates.