Affordable housing providers get financial boost from Alberta government

A supportive housing unit in the Inglewood neighborhood of Edmonton. Photo from the City of Edmonton.

The Government of Alberta announced they will be giving $16 million towards 30 different housing providers across the province to help with the upkeep of affordable housing for those who need it.

Calgary is set to receive $4 million, Edmonton will receive $5.5 million, and the remaining $6.5 million will be distributed to rural communities throughout the province.

According to WOWA.ca, the average home price in Alberta went up 5.8 per cent in the past year, with increases of 7 per cent and 6 per cent in Calgary and Edmonton respectively. The government also states that more than 110,000 people have turned to government-subsidized housing.

Jason Nixon, Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services, stated in a press conference that this investment will mainly be going towards building maintenance, and “making sure that existing structures will be there, available for people to use them.”

Nixon mentioned that this investment will bring 100 housing units back into use, while repairing and updating a further 300 units throughout the province.

“Affordable housing is not just a roof and walls,” said Gord Johnston, the CEO of Civida in Edmonton. “Having a safe, affordable place to live allows people and families to thrive, stay employed, do better in school, and access community services.”

According to Johnston, Civida is responsible for housing more than 15,000 people throughout the capital region. They are receiving $4 million, and Johnston plans to use that to upgrade and maintain their 3,500 community housing properties in Edmonton.

In Calgary, Jennifer McCue, the president and CEO of Bethany Care Society, says that investments like these are a huge help towards affordable helping organizations throughout Alberta.

“The funding provided through this announcement is vitally important to organizations like ours so we can support those in need of this very valuable asset. The funds assist us to optimally maintain and improve the buildings that our tenants call home,” McCue said.

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