Across Canada, affordable housing continues to be not just a hot topic but a pressing concern for many communities. With costs steadily rising, provinces are pooling resources to tackle the crisis head-on, ensuring not only the availability of housing but also its sustainability.
Take Toronto, for example, where the city battles increasing demands for affordable rental units. Recently, registration opened for two new buildings providing money-saving options for residents. The city’s HousingNowTO technical lead, Mark Richardson, lauded this development. “We’re really happy to see these buildings online, we just need to create thousands more opportunities like this,” he expressed, referencing the enormous gap between the number of units available and the staggering number of applicants who want them.
Toronto has increased its housing targets year after year, now aiming for 65,000 rent-controlled homes, including 6,500 rent-geared-to-income units by 2030. Yet, the city’s annual report reveals the harsh reality: the rate at which housing starts and completions occur isn’t keeping up with approvals.
Registration is now available for 90 affordable rental units at 223 Redpath Ave., with options ranging from studio to three-bedroom layouts. At $1,373 for the smallest unit and $2,241 for the largest, these rentals come with specific income limits intended to support low- to moderate-income households. Nearby, 24 one- and two-bedroom units will be ready at 175 Oak St. early next year, with prices starting at $1,366 for one bedroom.
Adding to this growing initiative, Winnipeg is making strides by seeking consultants to help expedite housing construction. Mayor Scott Gillingham revealed the city’s ambition to build more than 14,000 housing units over three years to secure significant federal housing grants. While progress has been noted, Gillingham pointed out the continuous need for improvements to the permit process to meet their ambitious targets.
Seconding this push toward affordable housing, the Liberal government recently reported on its immigration strategy, which claims it could cut Canada’s housing gap nearly in half by 2030. The Democratic party’s plan is projected to reduce the necessity for new housing units by approximately 534,000, paving the way for sustainable growth and development.
Meanwhile, the Salvation Army is also involved, campaigning to maintain and rejuvenate affordable housing across the country. A partnership with the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) has led to the largest contribution ever made toward affordable housing preservation. This partnership, totaling $85 million, aims to overhaul facilities nationwide, enhancing the quality and accessibility of living spaces for those who need them.
“The Salvation Army has set its target at 3,400 units,” stated Lieut.-Colonel John Murray, highlighting the organization’s ambitious plans to improve living conditions for vulnerable populations. The funds will address not only the basic structures but also improve the overall living experience, offering the community more than just shelter.
Lastly, Santa Ana is taking creative strides through innovative housing solutions. A grand opening was held for Estrella Springs, converting the former Budget Inn complex to serve as supportive housing for veterans. This project includes 89 studio apartments for individuals earning below 30 percent of the area median income.
Mayor Valerie Amezcua expresses optimism: “With the completion of Estrella Springs, the City of Santa Ana has now helped build over 100 permanent supportive housing units for homeless veterans.” By combining efforts among various stakeholders, from local governments to organizations like Jamboree Housing Corporation, Santa Ana is setting the stage for impactful changes.
For those seeking affordable housing options, such multifaceted initiatives showcase both the challenges and the momentum building across cities. Each development reflects varying successes and how they contribute to the greater goal of housing equity. With collaborative efforts across numerous fronts, Canadians can remain hopeful about tackling the burgeoning housing crisis.
