ALBERTON, P.E.I. — The Town of Alberton will soon have more affordable housing available for those struggling with mental health and addictions. On July 27, the installation of 10 single-unit modular units began on College Street. It’s a project by the Canadian Mental Health Association of P.E.I. (CMHA P.E.I.), which has an office on an adjoining property. The organization will manage the buildings and the clients that reside there. The units will be for, “anyone who is receiving services or supports from any CMHA program,” said Julia Ramsay, director of community education and peer supports for CMHA P.E.I. “So, our clubhouse program, our housing program, anything like that.” The project is estimated to cost around $3 million. The P.E.I. Housing Corporation has also contributed a $2 million forgivable loan, as well as a total of $1.4 million in grants for operating costs over the next 10 years. The two-storey building will consist of six studio units – renting for $650 – and four one-bedroom units, renting for $785. Two of the one-bedroom units will also be accessible. CMHA already has six one-bedroom housing units in Alberton. The 10 currently under construction will be its first modular units, built offsite and later installed where needed. “We don’t have a lot of housing in our rural communities, we don’t have enough housing right across P.E.I. So, to be able to add an additional 10 units on top of what we already have is going to be really beneficial,” said Ramsay. “Not only to our clients that are already seeking services but those who will be coming to seek service in the future.” “This was technically my very first apartment on my own, I was still living with my grandparents. I was really excited when they offered it to me,” said Greeman. “It helped me learn more about myself and learn how I can live on my own. More about myself and how I can develop on my own.” Greeman said he’s happy more Islanders will have the same opportunities he had. “I think it’s a really good fit,” he said. “I think we need it. Going to Charlottetown and seeing the homeless people, I just really want to do something, but know I can’t. I couldn’t afford to fix all their problems. "I think of how easy it could be for me to be in that situation and have nothing.” The houses are expected to be finished and handed over to CMHA by October, which is hoping to have residents moved in by Christmas. “I’m so excited to have this here,” said Ramsay. “Very happy.”