For Immediate Release
HAMILTON, ON – April 9, 2026 – Habitat for Humanity Hamilton is now accepting applications for Home Partners (the families who will go on to inhabit the homes) for its upcoming Dawson Avenue development in Stoney Creek, a 10-unit townhome project set to break ground in Spring 2026.
The project will introduce Habitat Hamilton’s new Lease-with-Equity Program, an innovative housing model designed to support middle-income working families who are increasingly priced out of homeownership.
The development will feature five street-facing townhomes, built with modern finishes and high-efficiency construction designed to support long-term comfort and sustainability.
Unlike traditional renting, the Lease-with-Equity model allows participating families to build savings while they rent. Home partners will lease their unit at fair market rent, with 25–30% of their monthly payments set aside for in a dedicated investment fund annually. Over time, those funds, along with any investment growth, can help families accumulate savings toward a down payment for the purchase of their future home.
“Too many hardworking families today are doing everything right but still cannot break into the housing market,” said Sean Ferris, CEO of Habitat for Humanity Hamilton. “Our Lease-with-Equity Program provides a stable place to live while helping families build the financial foundation needed to create a pathway to homeownership.”
Participants may remain in the program for up to ten years, during which time their accumulated savings can grow toward a future home purchase.
To be eligible, applicants must:
· Have lived or worked in Hamilton for the past two consecutive years
· Require a two-bedroom home
· Have a household employment income between $77,000 and $115,000
· Demonstrate a strong credit history and minimal debt
· Not currently own a home but be seeking a pathway to homeownership
Interested applicants must first attend a mandatory information session, after which they will be invited to complete an online eligibility screening.
Construction on the Dawson Avenue development is expected to begin this Spring, with project completion anticipated approximately two years later.
More information about the upcoming information sessions can be found at www.habitathamilton.ca/apply
For more information about the program, please contact:
Kathryn Fair
Director, Affiliate Operations
Habitat for Humanity Hamilton
Phone: 905-560-6707 ext. 102
Email: kathryn@habitathamilton.ca
About Habitat for Humanity
Habitat for Humanity Hamilton is an independent charity, building affordable housing and promoting homeownership. Since 1991, Habitat Hamilton has built and renovated dozens of houses for underhoused families. Our vision is a world where everyone has a safe and decent place to live. With world-class project build execution, we foster and build equity through affordable housing while fully integrating diversity and inclusion into everything we do. We bring together local volunteers, community members, donors, and corporate partners to build homes, communities, and hope. www.habitathamilton.ca