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“St. Vincent’s on Huron”

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SSVP inaugurates its first affordable housing project in London Ontario

The outreach and hard work paid off: on April 3, 2025, the London Particular Council of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul held a groundbreaking ceremony of its affordable housing project “St. Vincent’s on Huron”, attended by the nearby community, affordable housing partners, donors, volunteers, and politicians.

With a backhoe as a backdrop, the mayor, ward councillor, co-chairs of the fundraising campaign, SSVP National President and London President, as well a representative from the Diocese and St. Andrew’s Parish all put on hard hats and dug their shovels in unison. The new six-story building is the first affordable housing project for London’s Saint Vincent de Paul, which started planning in 2022. The $27 million project includes 73 units, including 17 fully accessible apartments and a community room, and will be opening in December 2026 or early 2027.

SSVP member Shelley Baker said, “we believe everyone deserves access to safe, dignified, and affordable housing. Supporting this initiative is an opportunity to create lasting change in our community, providing families and individuals the stability they need to thrive.”

Currently, there are well over 7,000 individuals and families in need of long-term affordable housing in London. Undertaking a project of this magnitude for the first time, the SSVP put together a team of volunteers with expertise in affordable housing and began the process in partnership with the City of London to become an accredited affordable housing provider. This volunteer team worked with consultants and architects at Cornerstone Architecture to design and plan a building focused on the needs of tenants. After the land was severed from St. Andrew the Apostle Parish, community consultations took place, zoning changes were approved, followed by a site plan and a building permit.

The Bishop of London, Most Rev. Ronald P. Fabbro, said, “The Diocese of London is proud to play a role in this initiative. The St. Vincent’s on Huron affordable housing project (…) will provide much-needed housing units for the people of London and alleviate the shortage that has only grown over the last few years. My thanks and gratitude go out to the many people, especially the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul and campaign honorary co-chairs Shelley Baker and Mary Michniewicz, who have volunteered countless hours to make this project happen.” 

The SSVP’s goal is to raise $ 1.7 million of the overall project costs. As of the end of March, SSVP London has reached 81% of its objective. Donations have come from many sectors, individuals, foundations and local businesses, and the fundraising campaign continues. Late in 2024, a significant milestone was reached to enable the purchase of land from the Diocese of London.

The SSVP Affordable Housing group has been working with and negotiating with the City of London’s Housing Department, which will contribute more than $2 million in grants to this project.

London’s Mayor Josh Morgan, joined by six city councillors, complimented the Society and stated, “new non-profit organizations coming into this space are exactly what we need if we want to meet our targets.” He added, “affordable housing projects like St. Vincent’s on Huron are essential in tackling London’s housing crisis. The Society of Saint Vincent de Paul’s leadership and commitment to serving our community are truly commendable. This development will provide stability and dignity to those who need it most, offering a foundation for individuals and families to build a brighter future.”

Sara Steers
SSVP volunteer

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