Securing homeownership, Sault family calls housing program ‘a dream come true’

It’s been an exciting week for the Taylor family in Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., as they became homeowners for the very first time through a social services and housing program. 

Local childcare workers Danielle and Justin Taylor, along with their three kids, were handed the keys to a newly renovated home near the city’s downtown core as part of the Affordable Home Ownership Program (AHOP). 

Facilitated by the District of Sault Ste. Marie Social Services Administration Board (DSSAB), the program helps families transition from social housing to homeownership.

As part of the initiative, the Sault Housing Corporation purchases homes in disrepair, which are then renovated by Ontario Works and Disability Support Program clients.

Once remodelled, the homes can be purchased by eligible families at a more affordable cost. Proceeds from the sale are reinvested into future AHOP homes. 

The Taylors toured their new home on Andrew Street alongside social services and city officials on Tuesday — marking the fifth home completed and made available to a Sault family since AHOP began in 2019. 

“I’m full of emotions,” said Danielle Taylor. “It’s a dream come true. This house is amazing compared to where we lived for the last 14 years.”

The newly renovated home was among the many 3-storey dwellings built right after the Second World War. At about 1,000 square feet, it features three bedrooms and a spacious backyard. 

“When I saw the backyard, it was a yes right away,” Taylor said. “I’m really looking forward to making new memories in this house.”

Prior to being purchased by the local housing corporation, the house sat vacant as it was owned by an out-of-town landlord.

City councillor Luke Dufour, who helped create the AHOP program, said the home had various building and by-law violations against it before it was repaired. 

“It’s wonderful to see vacant houses downtown being occupied by hardworking families who are becoming homeowners and raising their kids,” he said.

“Anytime you can see kids getting the opportunity to have their own backyard and their own bedroom, as a parent, it’s something that means a lot to me.”

The Andrew Street home was renovated by Ontario Works and Disability Support Program clients through the province’s Building Maintenance and Construction program (BMC).