Hussen Announces Phase 2 of Housing Strategy

By: Laura Steiner

Housing, Diversity and Inclusion Minister Ahmed Hussen has announced  an additional $118.2 million over the next seven years for Community Housing.  The funding represents a section of the Liberal government’s  $500 million National Housing Strategy.

“This Phase 2 extension ensures that families don’t have to worry about keeping a roof over their heads, and provides, safe, affordable housing that meets their needs,” Hussen said.    The investment marks the beginning of phase two of the Federal Community Housing Initiative (FCHI). The money will help approximately 55,000 housing units whose operating agreements under federal administration ended after April 1, 2016.

“We welcome the federal government’s investment in community housing which will ensure rent levels remain affordable for low-income households living in co-operative and non-profit housing previously administered by the federal government,” Executive Director, Co-operative Housing Federation of Canada (CHF Canada).  Eligible organizations will receive enrolment packages within the next few weeks. Not-for-profit organizations will also have the opportunity to bid on land for the purposes of building housing, with help for the federal government through the Big Cities’  funding stream.  “We want to even the playing field,” Hussen said of the investment.

Milton MP Adam van Koeverden knows the positive difference good housing makes.  He grew up with his family at a Co-Op development in Oakville.  “I am so proud that our government is investing across the housing spectrum to create affordability for everyone living in Canada and that includes providing supports for Community Housing,” he said.  For more on Federal Community Housing Initiative please visit their website