Young tenants move into new affordable housing complex

Troy Shantz Moving day has finally arrived for nearly a dozen at-risk youth. Contractors put the finishing touches last week on the Sarnia housing complex for youth, concluding two years of planning and renovations at 811 London Rd.

Troy Shantz

Moving day has finally arrived for nearly a dozen at-risk youth.

Contractors put the finishing touches last week on the Sarnia housing complex for youth, concluding two years of planning and renovations at 811 London Rd.

“Honestly, it’s a fresh start for us, because a lot of us come from homes that aren’t the best,” said Meghan Miller, 20, one of 11 tenants who moved in to the former ABC Daycare on Aug. 9.

“I’m living with an abusive ex-boyfriend so I need to get out.”

The space, which backs onto Germain Park, is the brainchild of Tammy and Gary Vandenheuvel.

The couple, who own Preferred Towing, are footing the bill with help from an Ontario affordable youth housing fund. The fund is providing nearly $1 million to pay off a mortgage over the next 20 years.

“It’s been a two-year journey,” Gary Vandenheuvel said at the open house.

“We basically gutted it right to the frame… a totally new building. New wiring, new plumbing, new everything throughout.”

New appliances also arrived at the seven spacious units, which feature seating areas, private bathrooms and bedrooms.

Inspirational quotes compiled by youth at the Rebound drop-in centre brightly decorate the doors of each apartment, many of which have corporate sponsors, he added.

It’s a big commitment, but Tammy Vandenheuvel said she was compelled to create safe housing for residents aged 16-24 after experiencing homelessness herself as a youth and working 32 years as a child and youth worker.

Rebound and Tammy Vandenheuvel selected the tenants through an interview process.

Meghan Miller said the panel accepted her quickly after learning of her situation.

“They make it affordable for everyone,” she said, noting her single unit isn’t rent-free but based on what she can afford.

But the community still has a long way to go to address youth homelessness, added Miller, who estimated a dozen more of the housing projects are needed.

“Trying to find a place in Sarnia by yourself is next to impossible.”