Habitat for Humanity Windsor-Essex celebrates Launch of the “Repair Revolution”

Habitat for Humanity Windsor-Essex (HFHWE) has announced the launch of the “Repair Revolution,” a trillium funded home repair program aimed at supporting Windsor and Essex County residents in maintaining safe, decent, and affordable housing. HFHWE has prioritized working with Windsor Essex Community Housing in their goals to restore the affordable housing stock throughout the city. This celebration marks the beginning of an impactful collaboration that will enhance the accessibility and sustainability of affordable housing in our community.

Thanks to the generous support of $272,400 in Trillium Funding, HFHWE has been able to secure a dedicated vehicle and essential tools, enabling them to take their repair operations on the road. Additionally, the organization will be hiring a Repair Program Facilitator, a skilled professional who will not only restore homes but also train volunteers, students, and residents in home maintenance and repair.

Minister Tangri expressed her support for the initiative, stating, “As someone who deeply believes in building thriving communities, I am immensely pleased to witness the launch of Habitat for Humanity Windsor-Essex’s ‘Repair Revolution’ program. This initiative is a testament to our government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring access to safe and affordable housing for all Ontarians. I am honored to support this impactful collaboration with Windsor Essex Community Housing and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on our community.”

MPP Dowie shared his enthusiasm, saying, “I am thrilled to see the launch of Habitat for Humanity Windsor-Essex’s ‘Repair Revolution’ program. This initiative’s significant milestone will provide residents with the necessary resources to access safe and affordable housing by collaborating with Windsor-Essex Community Housing. As we enhance the sustainability of affordable housing, I am honored to support this important initiative that positively impacts the lives of our residents and community.”

Cynthia L. Summers, CEO of Windsor Essex Community Housing Corporation, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “We, Windsor Essex Community Housing Corporation, are happy to be part of this announcement today and look forward to working with Habitat for Humanity on more unique opportunities like this.”

To commemorate this exciting milestone, HFHWE hosted a celebratory event at 982 South Street, Windsor, on Tuesday, July 11, at 3:30 pm. The event was attended by esteemed dignitaries, including Hon. Nina Tangri, Associate Minister of Housing, on behalf of the Province of Ontario, Mr. Andrew Dowie, MPP Windsor-Tecumseh, Councillor Fabio Costante from the City of Windsor, Lindsay Lovecky, Board Chair of Habitat for Humanity Windsor-Essex, Fiona Coughlin, Executive Director/CEO of Habitat for Humanity Windsor-Essex, and Cynthia Summers, CEO of Windsor-Essex Community Housing Corporation.

Highlights of the event included a funding announcement, a ribbon-cutting ceremony on a restored unit, and guided tours showcasing the restored CHC unit, the repair van, and a unit in progress, allowing attendees to witness firsthand the positive impact of this program.

The event concluded with a call to action from Fiona Coughlin, Executive Director and CEO, Habitat for Humanity Windsor-Essex, saying “Thanks to this funding we are excited to announce that Habitat for Humanity Windsor-Essex is actively seeking applicants for the position of Repair Program Facilitator. This role requires a unique combination of expertise in residential home maintenance and a passion for working with and training volunteers, students, and residents. We are looking for someone who will play a vital role in our Repair Program, empowering individuals and communities to create lasting change through their skills and knowledge. If you possess these qualifications and share our commitment to affordable housing, we encourage you to apply at habitatwindsor.org and be a part of our mission to transform lives and build a stronger community.”