Investing in Affordable Housing…

July 10, 2007

With low vacancy rates, rapidly rising rents and a steady influx of newcomers increasing demand, access to affordable housing has become an increasing priority for many residents of Calgary Centre. Our government is sensitive to these housing challenges and we are responding to ensure there is a sufficient supply of affordable housing.

Committed to taking action…

We are committed to taking comprehensive action to address housing and homelessness challengers across Canada. Budget 2007 created three federal-provincial housing trusts to address immediate pressures for affordable housing, including $129.5 million for Alberta.

Recently I participated in the groundbreaking ceremony for the first project in Calgary to receive funding, a collaboration between the Calgary Home Builders Foundation, Calgary Homeless Foundation and Horizon Housing Society. The federal government joined with these groups to build 114 affordable housing units for seniors, the mentally ill and the disabled.

The federal government also committed $1 billion to the Affordable Housing Initiative (AHI). The AHI provides support for the development of affordable housing in high-growth, high need communities and supports low income families and individuals with special needs.
This new funding for affordable housing is another example of our government ensuring that all Calgarians share in our economic prosperity.