The Ontario government is investing $3.4 million to build new supportive housing in Espanola, offering vulnerable residents a chance to rebuild their lives with stable, affordable homes. The new development, Cornerstone Homes, represents a significant milestone in the province’s broader strategy to tackle homelessness and strengthen communities across northern Ontario.
Provincial Investment Targets Chronic Homelessness
Located at 661 Queensway Avenue, Cornerstone Homes features seven fully furnished one-bedroom apartments, several of which are fully accessible. The project, owned by the Manitoulin-Sudbury District Services Board (MSDSB), also includes shared amenities such as a laundry room, a communal lounge, and an on-site support office for residents.
The investment—totaling $3,438,320—comes through Ontario’s Homelessness Prevention Program (HPP), which funds housing and support services for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
“Supportive housing enables people in our communities to get back on their feet and turn the page to new and exciting chapters in their lives,” said Rob Flack, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. “By working hand-in-hand with our municipal partners, our government is getting more affordable and supportive housing built across Ontario to protect our most vulnerable residents and ensure they have a roof over their heads.”
A Community-Based Approach to Housing
Espanola’s new development was designed to integrate residents into the community, with the property located near parks, shopping, and the hospital. Local leaders say the project has been long anticipated and will provide lasting benefits.
“The Town of Espanola is excited to see this project come to fruition,” said Douglas Gervais, Mayor of Espanola. “Housing has been a top priority of late, and the opening of seven new units in our town will have a lasting impact for decades to come.”
Brian Saunderson, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, said the new units will have a meaningful impact for residents seeking stability. “This investment is helping strengthen the community of Espanola by creating safe and stable homes for residents in need,” he said. “These new units will provide vital support for individuals and families experiencing homelessness, helping them build stability and a stronger connection to their community.”
Collaboration Across Levels of Government
The Manitoulin-Sudbury District Services Board has overseen the project from planning to completion, working in partnership with the province and local officials. The organization manages housing and homelessness prevention initiatives across multiple municipalities in the region.
“The opening of Cornerstone Homes has been highly anticipated,” said Kevin Burke, Chair of the MSDSB. “We are very excited to have finished construction and for the building’s first tenants to begin moving in.”
The project was also praised by Bill Rosenberg, Member of Provincial Parliament for Algoma-Manitoulin, who highlighted its long-term impact on community well-being.
“Congratulations to the Manitoulin-Sudbury District Services Board on the opening Cornerstone Homes in Espanola,” Rosenberg said. “This project represents a vital step forward in ensuring the safety, stability, and dignity of those in our community. It’s more than just bricks and mortar—it’s about creating a place to call home. Today’s milestone is a testament to the vision, collaboration, and dedication of everyone involved. To all who contributed—thank you, and congratulations. Your work will support and uplift this community for generations to come.”
Building a Stronger Ontario
The Espanola project is part of Ontario’s broader effort to expand access to supportive and affordable housing across the province. Through programs like the Homelessness Prevention Program, the government continues to fund construction projects and local services that address the root causes of homelessness—ranging from lack of affordable housing to mental health and employment challenges.
By combining housing with on-site support and community integration, Cornerstone Homes aims to provide more than just shelter—it seeks to offer stability, dignity, and opportunity for residents.
As tenants begin moving in, local officials say the development represents a new chapter for Espanola and a model for similar communities across the province.
For more information about housing supports in Ontario or to read the 2025 Ontario Budget: Building a Strong Ontario, residents can visit the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing’s website.
