Latest news with #AffordableHousingFund
Cision Canada
22-07-2025
- Business
- Cision Canada
Canada announces funding for 27 new homes in Port Hardy Français
PORT HARDY, BC, July 22, 2025 /CNW/ - Solving Canada's housing crisis requires immediate action to bring down costs. To provide Canadians with increased access to affordable and sustainable housing, the government today announced funding of over $11.1 million for the Urban Village in Port Hardy. The announcement was made as part of a sacred Blessing Ceremony hosted by the Gwa'sala-'Nakwaxda'xw Housing Society (GNHS). This project is a crucial step towards addressing the urgent need for safe, affordable, and culturally appropriate housing for Indigenous households and Elders in Port Hardy and the District of Mt. Waddington. The project, located at 8925 Park Drive, has 27 apartments across three, low-rise buildings with a mix of one, two and three-bedroom units. Construction is being undertaken by K'awat'si Construction Company, a subsidiary of K'awat'si Economic Development Corporation (KEDC), Gwa'sala-'Nakwaxda'xw Nation's economic development subsidiary. As we build a strong Canadian housing sector, purposeful collaboration will be essential. That means working hand-in-hand with the non-profit sector to bring down costs and build homes at a scale and speed not seen since the Second World War. Quotes: "The federal government is committed to providing communities with the support they need to develop local solutions to housing challenges. Working with our partners, we're ensuring that everyone has a safe, affordable place to call home." – The Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada "It's crucial that Indigenous people in Port Hardy and throughout British Columbia have access to affordable homes where they feel culturally safe and supported. We'll keep working with First Nations and the federal government so more Indigenous people find homes that reflect their culture and values, close to family in the community they love." – Christine Boyle, BC Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs "This blessing ceremony signifies more than just the start of construction; it represents a commitment to our community's well-being and a new chapter of hope for our families and Elders. This project is a testament to what can be achieved when Indigenous leadership, government partners, and industry come together to address critical housing needs in a culturally respectful way."" – Chief Leslie Walkus, Gwa'sala-'Nakwaxda'xw First Nations Quick Facts: Funding provided for the Urban Village is as follows: $11.16 million from the federal government, through the National Housing Strategy's Affordable Housing Fund $6.07 million from the Province through BC Housing's Indigenous Housing Fund, as well as annual operating funding. $811,000 from Gwa'sala-'Nakwaxda'xw First Nations as well as the land for the project. The Affordable Housing Fund (AHF) provides funding through low-interest and/or forgivable loans or contributions to partnered organizations for new affordable housing and the renovation and repair of existing, affordable and community housing. This is a $14.6 billion program under the National Housing Strategy (NHS) that gives priority to projects that help people who need it most, including women and children fleeing family violence, seniors, Indigenous Peoples, people living with disabilities, those with mental health or addiction issues, Veterans, and young adults. As of March 2025, the Government of Canada has committed $11.99 billion to support the creation of over 46,000 units and the repair of over 174,000 units through the Affordable Housing Fund. The Gwa'sala-'Nakwaxda'xw Housing Society is an independent self-governing entity established to develop and provide affordable housing options to low and no-income Gwa'sala-'Nakwaxda'xw members and other First Nations people, including Elders, living in Port Hardy and the District of Mt. Waddington. Its purposes also include acting as an independent housing authority, working with social and community organizations, and providing quality housing services based on mutual respect and recognition Additional Information: Visit for the most-requested Government of Canada housing information. CMHC plays a critical role as a national facilitator to promote stability and sustainability in Canada's housing finance system. Our mortgage insurance products support access to homeownership and the creation and maintenance of rental supply. We also actively support the Government of Canada in delivering on its commitment to make housing more affordable. Our research and data help inform housing policy. By facilitating cooperation between all levels of government, private and non-profit sectors, we contribute to advancing housing affordability, equity, and climate compatibility. Follow us on X, YouTube, LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram. SOURCE Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC)
Cision Canada
26-06-2025
- Business
- Cision Canada
The federal government supports construction of 19 housing units for seniors in Cape Breton Français
CAPE BRETON, NS, June 26, 2025 /CNW/ - Solving Canada's housing crisis requires immediate action to address the urgent needs of Canadians. To provide Canadians with increased access to affordable and sustainable housing, the government today announced an investment of $1.7 million for the construction of 19 housing units for seniors in the Cape Breton Regional Municipality. The announcement was made by Mike Kelloway, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Transport and Internal Trade and Member of Parliament for Sydney—Glace Bay. With funding and support from the federal government, Nova Scotia's Department of Growth and Development, the North Sydney Food Bank Society has transformed the former Seton School building into 19 affordable housing units. The renovations have created housing to meet the growing needs of vulnerable people, including women and children, young adults, new immigrants and seniors. The project is close to a community centre and all services. Funding provided for this housing project is as follows: $1.7 million from the federal government, through the Affordable Housing Fund (AHF) $1.6 million from Nova Scotia's Department of Growth and Development $200,000 from Efficiency Nova Scotia $90,078 in cash equity from the North Sydney Food Bank Society Quotes: "Our government is committed to putting in place a series of measures to help double the rate of residential construction across the country. Working with Nova Scotia's Department of Growth and Development and the North Sydney Food Bank allows us to get closer to our goal of providing more affordable housing for Canadians." – The Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure "Through the Affordable Housing Fund, our government is investing in safe, affordable housing to ensure seniors in Cape Breton have a place to call home that meets their needs. We remain committed to building stronger communities — and a stronger Canada." – Mike Kelloway, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Transport and Internal Trade and Member of Parliament for Sydney—Glace Bay "Improving access to affordable housing can only be done through a team approach, as we have seen through the North Sydney Food Bank project. By working together, the provincial government, the federal government and the North Food Bank Society has ensured that there are 19 safe and affordable homes in the North Sydney area today – and in the future." – The Honourable Fred Tilley, Minister of Public Works for Nova Scotia and MLA for Northside-Westmount "The North Sydney Food Bank is very proud of the great work we were able to do converting an existing wing of the old Seton Elementary School into 19 affordable seniors housing units. This project was a wonderful example of the great things that can be accomplished when companies work together. We are very grateful to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation and Nova Scotia's Department of Growth and Development for helping to make this project possible." – Stacy Ellis, General Manager of the North Sydney Food Bank Quick facts: The Affordable Housing Fund (AHF) provides funding through low-interest and/or forgivable loans or contributions to partner organizations for new affordable housing and the renovation and repair of existing affordable and community housing. The AHF is a $14.6-billion National Housing Strategy program that prioritizes housing projects for those who need it most: women and children fleeing family violence, seniors, Indigenous people, people living with disabilities, those with mental health or addiction issues, veterans and young adults. As of March 2025, the federal government had committed $11.99 billion to support the creation of close to 46,000 units and the repair of over 174,000 units through the AHF. Budget 2024 announced enhancements to the AHF which includes the program being extended from 2025 – 2026 to 2028 – 2029. The existing New Construction stream is now subdivided into two sub-streams: a Rapid Housing sub-stream to create shelters, transitional housing and supportive housing for those in greatest need, and a Community Housing sub-stream to support affordable and mixed-market housing projects where there are both affordable and market-rent units in a project. The Repair and Renewal stream has replaced minimum requirements with an approach where projects supporting accessibility and energy efficiency will be prioritized. Additional information: Visit for the most-requested Government of Canada housing information. CMHC plays a critical role as a national facilitator to promote stability and sustainability in Canada's housing finance system. Our mortgage insurance products support access to homeownership and the creation and maintenance of rental supply. We also actively support the Government of Canada in delivering on its commitment to make housing more affordable. Our research and data help inform housing policy. By facilitating cooperation between all levels of government, private and non-profit sectors, we contribute to advancing housing affordability, equity, and climate compatibility. Follow us on X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram. Progress on programs and initiatives is updated quarterly on the Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada (HICC) website. The Housing and Infrastructure Project Map shows the affordable housing projects developed so far.
Winnipeg Free Press
18-06-2025
- Business
- Winnipeg Free Press
‘We really need that federal piece': city awaits Ottawa grants for housing projects as deadline looms
City housing officials fear more than half of the first round of Winnipeg projects awarded Housing Accelerator Fund grants could miss a key deadline. 'Six out of the 10 projects that we've approved through our (Housing Accelerator Fund) capital grants (in) Round 1, which require a building permit by September of this year … are still awaiting approval from (Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation) under the Affordable Housing Fund,' Lissie Rappaport, manager of the city's Housing Accelerator Fund office, said during Tuesday's executive policy committee meeting. 'The loan (portion) of that program has run out of funds. There's still money left in the grant program but most groups access both to make a project work.' Rappaport told the committee her office is 'fully optimistic' the federal government will commit more money but it's not yet clear when that could happen. SEAN KILPATRICK / THE CANADIAN PRESS FILES In late May, some groups proposing housing projects learned the federal Affordable Housing Fund's community housing development stream had been exhausted. 'Some of those projects may be late on that September deadline … It could be a risk for us to not meet our targets under this year,' she said. In late May, some groups proposing housing projects learned the federal Affordable Housing Fund's community housing development stream had been exhausted. Rappaport said the six affected projects she mentioned include a combined 680 housing units, and 464 of those are considered deeply affordable. One of the affected projects aims to provide 154 housing units with affordable rents at 145 Transcona Blvd. But a key proponent of that $46-million project said it is now in limbo. 'We've been pushing really hard from a political level to try to get support for this project,' said Stephanie Haight, director of development and construction for the Winnipeg Housing Rehabilitation Corporation. Haight said the project would provide homes for vulnerable people who are facing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless due to a physical disability. The organization applied for CMHC funding to cover more than half its costs, seeking an $11.5-million grant and $14.8 million in long-term, low interest loans. Haight said the project received a $5-million grant from Winnipeg's $122-million share of the federal Housing Accelerator Fund. While CMHC has not provided written approval for the project, it would need that funding to succeed, Haight said. 'We have city support, we have provincial support and we really need that federal piece,' said Haight. Mayor Scott Gillingham said he's confident the senior government will act on the issue. 'The federal government has already told us that that Affordable Housing Fund is an important fund. Even though it's fully subscribed, they've committed to my office that … they're working on either replenishing the fund or finding a way to make sure those projects still go ahead,' said Gillingham. To secure federal Housing Accelerator dollars, the city made sweeping changes to its zoning rules, including allowing up to four housing units to be built on a single lot in most residential areas. Gillingham said those changes will help attract more housing projects, long after current funding programs end. 'What those zoning changes are about is getting more housing built quicker. There are many projects that will never try to access or need federal or provincial funding to get built,' he said. In an email, a CMHC spokesman noted the Housing Accelerator Fund and Affordable Housing Fund are not directly tied to each other. He also noted many housing proponents applied for the latter fund. 'With the significant demand for funding, CMHC continues and is committed to working with our clients and partners to process as many (Affordable Housing Fund) applications as possible. Further updates on (that fund) will be provided as they become available,' wrote David Harris. Overall, the city awarded $25 million to 11 projects from its share of the Housing Accelerator Fund last year, while another 12 projects split $25 million of the funding in 2025. Rappaport noted one of the 11 projects granted last year has now withdrawn its application for Housing Accelerator Funding, leaving the total for that year at 10 projects. Wednesdays Sent weekly from the heart of Turtle Island, an exploration of Indigenous voices, perspectives and experiences. Westgate Developments Ltd. and LVDC Holdings Ltd. had planned to convert a commercial building at 125 Garry St. into a mixed-use apartment complex with 126 housing units, including 32 affordable ones. The city and developer declined comment on the reasons that project won't proceed. Rappaport said city staff will look at other options to invest the money allotted to that project, which could be offered to another applicant who didn't initially receive a grant. X: @joyanne_pursaga Joyanne PursagaReporter Joyanne is city hall reporter for the Winnipeg Free Press. A reporter since 2004, she began covering politics exclusively in 2012, writing on city hall and the Manitoba Legislature for the Winnipeg Sun before joining the Free Press in early 2020. Read more about Joyanne. Every piece of reporting Joyanne produces is reviewed by an editing team before it is posted online or published in print — part of the Free Press's tradition, since 1872, of producing reliable independent journalism. Read more about Free Press's history and mandate, and learn how our newsroom operates. Our newsroom depends on a growing audience of readers to power our journalism. If you are not a paid reader, please consider becoming a subscriber. Our newsroom depends on its audience of readers to power our journalism. Thank you for your support.
Yahoo
12-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Mesa County approves faster review of affordable housing projects
MESA COUNTY, Colo. (KREX) — On Tuesday, the Board of Mesa County Commissioners unanimously approved a new resolution for Proposition 123 to help speed up the review process for future affordable housing developments. The resolution will allow for faster construction of housing and will keep Mesa County eligible for state funding used for local housing projects. With the decision, Mesa County has formalized a policy to review all affordable housing applications within 90 days. The changed timeline aims to enable quicker decision-making and support developers who bring affordable homes to the area. 'Communities that implement fast-track policies reduce housing costs and boost supply by eliminating delays that drive up project expenses,' said Mesa County Community Development Director Greg Moberg. In 2022, Proposition 123 was passed by Colorado voters to create a statewide Affordable Housing Fund. Local governments can access the funding only if they commit to certain requirements, such as promising to increase affordable housing options and to expedite project reviews. Proposition 123 allows counties to give money to the community for affordable housing projects in two ways. First, the money from the state is funneled through the county to developers to help reduce the costs of affordable housing projects. The other way allows grants to be used for communities to initiate affordable housing projects, such as land acquisition or expedited processing. Currently, Mesa County is testing out a pilot program through the state to use AI in the review of applications and other processes to make the process quicker and more efficient. During the Board of Mesa County Administrative Public Hearing, Mesa County Commissioner Bobbie Daniel commented about her appreciation for the resolution. 'Greg [Moberg], I appreciate the fact that we didn't need to alter our process because we were already hitting the mark when it comes to streamlining all of the asks the state was asking us to do to make this an expedient process,' said Mesa County Commissioner Bobbie Daniel. 'I just want to applaud you guys, applaud our staff and applaud our team, that we were already hitting the mark. This is just a process to formalize it.' Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Winnipeg Free Press
05-06-2025
- Business
- Winnipeg Free Press
Affordable housing projects in limbo after fund ends
Non-profit organizations say an interruption to federal funding is putting millions of dollars for affordable housing projects in limbo. Last week, some groups say they learned funding had been 'exhausted' for the Affordable Housing Fund's community housing development stream, said Stephanie Haight, director of development and construction for the Winnipeg Housing Rehabilitation Corporation. Haight said groups were told the key Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation funding stream is now on hold and 'waiting for further direction from government.' MIKAELA MACKENZIE / FREE PRESS FILES Manitoba Non-Profit Housing Association's Christina Maes Nino fears a 'cascade' of uncertainty. Her corporation fears that will put their $46-million affordable housing project at risk, along with many others. 'We're in a pretty terrible position right now because we've actually put in $768,000 of our own cash with the understanding that CMHC would be supporting our project and moving it forward, only to receive this information … This housing project likely won't be built without CMHC support,' said Haight. The group planned to build 154 housing units at 145 Transcona Blvd., all with affordable rents. The project would include 68 units rented at 69 per cent of the median market rate and 31 units with provincially supported rents 'geared-to-income,' with some monthly one-bedroom rates as low as $285. The remaining 55 units would meet CMHC median market rent (the middle point of rental rates in a specific area). 'The 31 (rent-geared-to-income) units are fully accessible and they are dedicated to providing affordable housing for vulnerable populations facing homelessness or at (risk of) homelessness with a physical disability,' said Haight. The organization applied for CMHC funding to cover more than half its costs, seeking an $11.5-million grant and $14.8 million in long-term, low interest loans. Haight said the funding delay could also jeopardize $5 million the project is set to receive from Winnipeg's $122-million share of the federal Housing Accelerator Fund. Without CMHC funding, she said it's not clear if the project will get a building permit in time to qualify for that fund. 'If we don't get this project going, we can't recover that money so it will be very difficult for us to continue building deeply affordable housing into the future. So it definitely doesn't do anything to help our city work on the housing crisis that we currently have,' she said. Haight said CMHC did not provide a written conditional approval for the Transcona Boulevard project but encouraged the group to pursue it. Christina Maes Nino, executive director of the Manitoba Non-Profit Housing Association, said many of her organization's members are facing the same uncertainty. 'There is a lot to do on a project to be able to apply for CMHC capital funding, so they will often get funding from a bunch of other sources and invest a bunch of their money just to get to the stage where they can apply for the funding,' said Maes Nino. She said projects across the country could be affected by the change. Maes Nino said the federal government has expressed a commitment to affordable housing but the timeline for this key funding pocket is unknown. 'It's not clear how long the pause is for or what it's going to look like in the end,' she said, adding other housing funds could be compromised by CMHC changes, since many projects wouldn't be viable without it. 'It creates this cascade effect of uncertainty,' she said. In a late May notice to members, the Canadian Housing and Renewal Association warned that the Affordable Housing Fund's community housing development stream had been exhausted. 'This means any applications in the new construction — community housing sub-stream of the Affordable Housing Fund that have not yet been conditionally approved are being placed on hold … CHRA understands that these holds will remain in place until CMHC receives new direction from the federal government,' it states. The memo says the funding issue is 'particularly concerning' because the federal government announced in November that the Affording Housing Fund would be extended to 2028-29. 'Organizations have been investing in and preparing proposals based on the assumption that funding would be available until this time,' the memo states. Wednesdays Sent weekly from the heart of Turtle Island, an exploration of Indigenous voices, perspectives and experiences. A federal news release described the Affordable Housing Fund as a $14.6-billion program, which also includes a separate rapid housing stream and a repair-and-renewal stream. A spokesperson for CMHC said its affordable housing fund has received many applications since it launched. 'CMHC continues and is committed to working with our clients and partners to process as many (affordable housing) funding applications as possible,' an email said, without confirming if the fund had been exhausted and whether more money would be added. X: @joyanne_pursaga Joyanne PursagaReporter Joyanne is city hall reporter for the Winnipeg Free Press. A reporter since 2004, she began covering politics exclusively in 2012, writing on city hall and the Manitoba Legislature for the Winnipeg Sun before joining the Free Press in early 2020. Read more about Joyanne. Every piece of reporting Joyanne produces is reviewed by an editing team before it is posted online or published in print — part of the Free Press's tradition, since 1872, of producing reliable independent journalism. Read more about Free Press's history and mandate, and learn how our newsroom operates. Our newsroom depends on a growing audience of readers to power our journalism. If you are not a paid reader, please consider becoming a subscriber. Our newsroom depends on its audience of readers to power our journalism. Thank you for your support.
