Haldimand County and partners break ground at site of future affordable housing project

On Wednesday, July 23, 2025, members of Haldimand County Council, municipal and Haldimand-Norfolk Housing Corporation (HNHC) board of directors and staff, along with representatives from key project partners and agencies, gathered in Dunnville to break ground on-site of the future affordable housing development.

The project, located on Ramsey Drive, is intended to support ready-to-build, affordable housing faster with the ultimate goal of ending homelessness.

The affordable housing units will meet a critical community need by providing families and individuals with below-market average rental rates. The current waitlist for rent geared to income housing in Haldimand and Norfolk counties is 437.

The new development’s universal design will be accessible for individuals with disabilities, with 20 per cent of the units being barrier-free once constructed. Additional features of the building include:

• A provincially funded daycare on the main floor with services provided by YWCA Hamilton
• Tenant collaboration amenity space
• Program space for staff to support tenants while fostering much-needed community services
• Social stairwell designed to encourage social interaction and engagement

Construction is expected to continue through the summer and into the fall with an estimated completion date of Q1/2027.

Quotes

“This an important milestone for Haldimand and a testament to the progress that can be made when we work together with our government, local agencies and community partners. Council is extremely grateful to all parties involved for the support and hard work that has made this critically needed project a reality.” – Haldimand County Mayor Shelley Ann Bentley

“This new development represents a bold step forward in innovative community housing, designed to foster a vibrant, inclusive environment for residents of all incomes. We are proud to work in partnership with all levels of government and local organizations to create a space that addresses critical needs, including a much-needed daycare on the ground floor. This project exemplifies our commitment to building stronger, more connected communities for the future.”  – Matt Bowen, CEO, Haldimand-Norfolk Housing Corporation

“Affordable housing is the foundation of a healthy community. Today’s groundbreaking shows the true impact of collaboration—when community partners come together with a shared vision, meaningful change becomes possible. Congratulations to the Haldimand-Norfolk Housing Corporation and everyone involved in bringing this vital project to life.” – Sarah Page, General Manager, Emergency and Social Services – Norfolk County

“Community Living Haldimand (CLH) is thrilled to partner with Haldimand Norfolk Housing on the upcoming housing project on Ramsay Drive in Dunnville. This project will give opportunities for people supported by CLH to have a safe, comfortable and affordable home - something that everyone should have access to.” – Bob Butella, CEO, Community Living Haldimand

“At YWCA Hamilton, we are proud to be part of this collaboration to bring much-needed child care to Dunnville. This centre is a powerful example of what can be achieved when non-profits and many levels of government come together with a shared vision. With 10 infant, 15 toddler, and 16 preschool spaces, the centre will be a vital support for women and families in the community and will not only meet immediate needs but help build a stronger foundation for long-term economic security and community connection.” – Medora Uppal, CEO, YWCA Hamilton

"This project marks a meaningful milestone for HNWS and our community — the creation of the first transitional housing units for survivors of gender-based violence in Haldimand County. The affordable housing units dedicated to survivor use within the new development will provide a vital bridge from temporary shelter to permanent stability, and from violence to safety for those who may never access a shelter. Thank you to the HNHC for investing in safer futures and lasting change for survivors and their children across H&N.” – Amber Wardell, Executive Director, Haldimand & Norfolk Women’s Services