The Music Hall Apartments project has reached its capital campaign goal in less than a year, marking a major milestone for United Way Perth-Huron’s United Housing initiative and North Perth.
“The success of the Music Hall Apartments capital campaign really announces to our region that United Housing is here, it’s important and it’s speaking to people in our communities who want to help address the housing crisis locally,” said Ryan Erb, CEO of United Way Perth-Huron and United Housing. “As we celebrate this achievement, we’d like to thank Dave Johnston for generously donating the final $3,0o0 needed to help us achieve our goal, along with all the other donors who helped make this campaign a success.”
“Myself along with my wife Christine and our children Sam, Seth, Kaleb and Hannah are thrilled to be able to contribute to this project,” said Dave Johnston. “As a life-long North Perth resident I have seen the many ways United Way helps. When United Housing started it was easy for us to get behind this project and I look forward to it and future projects improving the quality of life in North Perth.”
“Many people in our community have donated to the capital campaign or invested in community bonds to make the Music Hall Apartments a reality,” added Allan Rothwell, North Perth capital campaign chair. “The community, with assistance from all levels of government, and other charitable foundations, has invested in itself to provide much needed affordable housing and support right in downtown Listowel.”
“News coverage around the lack of affordable housing often focuses on larger urban centres, but the same needs exist in small towns such as ours,” added Tom Soltys, North Perth capital campaign committee member and donor. “The creation of United Housing by United Way Perth-Huron helps address this issue across our counties.
“It was gratifying to see people living in our community, as well as past residents who still care deeply, support our first project, alongside the participation of all levels of government. We believe the Music Hall Apartments will serve as a template for other area communities to help them meet their needs for affordable housing.”
Located at 190–198 Main St. W. in Listowel, the Music Hall Apartments project is transforming underused downtown space into 10 mixed-income rental units, offering market-rate, workforce and deeply affordable housing options.
As well as local donors, investors and partners, the project also received support from all levels of government.
“The support we’ve received locally, provincially and federally proves that a collaborative, community-focused housing approach works,” said Kathy Vassilakos, Director of United Housing. “It shows what’s possible when we come together as a community to solve local challenges.”
READ MORE about United Housing.