VIDEO: Inspiring community effort provides a better life for Sault Ste. Marie's Lebrun family

Jason and Dawn Lebrun moved Tuesday from geared-to-income housing to home ownership, thanks to a unique community partnership believed to be the first of its kind in Ontario.

"This sets us ahead five to 10 years in our goals," Dawn said as she was presented with the keys to 48 London St. by Sault MPP Ross Romano and Luke Dufour, chair of the District of Sault Ste. Marie Social Services Administration Board (DSSMSSAB).

"I never thought we were going to own our own home so soon, We're so excited to have our garden. We're excited to look at the dogs playing," she said.

The house was extensively renovated under a unique partnership between the province and DSSMSSAB that purchases homes in need of repair in parts of the city experiencing declining assessment.

Through Sault College, the program provides experience to Ontario Works clients in building and maintenance skills while renovating the house.

The homes are then made available for purchase by families living in rent-geared-to-income units, with Social Services guaranteeing the mortgage for the first five years.

Equity in the home will be the family's down payment.

Jason expressed appreciation that so many Saultites helped to make 48 London a reality.

Dufour described the Lebruns as "two very good, hard-working, and deserving people."

The house at 48 London received structural improvements as well as:

• electrical re-wiring
• new cabinetry
• flooring
• siding
• windows
• doors
• drywall
• insulation
• plumbing
• electrical fixtures
• finishing work