Canada’s First Ever National Housing Strategy

November 22, 2017, Toronto – The federal government has announced Canada’s first ever National Housing Strategy. The Strategy will focus on the most vulnerable Canadians first: women and children fleeing family violence, seniors, Indigenous peoples, people with disabilities, those dealing with mental health and addiction issues, veterans and young people.

With an investment of $40 billion over 10 years the housing strategy aims to build 100,000 new affordable units and repair 300,000 affordable units resulting in a 50% cut to homelessness.

Here are some of the things the National Housing Strategy aims to do:

  • Invest $40 billion over 10 years
  • Build 100,000 new affordable units
  • Repair 300,000 affordable units
  • Cut homelessness by 50%

Wanda Morris, CARP’s VP of Advocacy says:

“CARP is pleased to see the $40 billion commitment from the Liberal government. While housing is often seen as an issue impacting younger Canadians, many seniors live in social housing that is in disrepair, or are struggling to pay rent on fixed incomes.

Approximately 1/4 of Canadian seniors live in poverty. Homelessness among seniors is increasing; 21% of homeless persons in Vancouver are seniors. 60% of those using the shelter on BC’s Sunshine Coast are over 55.

Providing housing security is a key step in alleviating it. CARP looks forward to working with the federal government to ensure sufficient funding is allocated to meet the specific needs of seniors.”

CARP has long been an advocate for secure and affordable housing for seniors.

We are pleased that the government has responded to our call earlier this year for more housing. Click here to read our submission. In 2018, CARP will continue to make affordable housing for older Canadians a top priority.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau noted: “Housing rights are human rights, everyone deserves a safe and affordable place to call home.”

Learn more about the National Housing Strategy by clicking here to visit placetocallhome.ca.