New, supportive homes for Edmontonians in need
The governments of Alberta and Canada are creating jobs and supporting permanent supportive housing with the opening of 42 new units in Edmonton’s Belvedere community.
With a mix of one- and two-bedroom units, the new apartments will provide a safe and stable home for individuals, couples and families who are experiencing housing instability or homelessness. Residents will have access to social programs and Indigenous and cultural-based supports through a partnership between Right at Home Housing Society and NiGiNan Housing Ventures.
The governments of Alberta and Canada jointly contributed $6 million for this project, which created more than 70 jobs.
Federal Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and Minister responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) Ahmed Hussen, and Alberta Seniors and Housing Minister Josephine Pon announced the grand opening.
“Every Canadian deserves a safe and affordable place to call home. With this announcement, 42 families will have homes near the services they need. This is a great example of the National Housing Strategy at work.”Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development, and Minister responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
“I am pleased to see the new housing project open its doors. These apartments will give those most in need access to a stable home with supports to help them get back on their feet. Through this project, Alberta’s government is delivering on its commitment to address the need for more permanent supportive housing.”Josephine Pon, Minister of Seniors and Housing
“Housing is more than a roof over someone’s head. This type of housing offers the foundation for a better life. These new housing units can be a safe place for people to rebuild their lives and to heal. The combination of secure housing and cultural supports will give Indigenous people a strong sense of community and belonging.”Rick Wilson, Minister of Indigenous Relations
“This project is an important step towards addressing homelessness in Alberta. The Alberta government will continue working with our partners to help find appropriate housing solutions and provide other necessary supports for people experiencing homelessness.”Rajan Sawhney, Minister of Community and Social Services
“Increasing the supply of permanent supportive housing is a key priority for the city, as housing like this is an essential element in ending homelessness and poverty. I’m glad that this housing complex will provide Edmontonians who are struggling with a safe place to call home and the safety and support they need to lead healthy and connected lives.”Don Iveson, mayor, City of Edmonton
“Right at Home, and our partner NiGiNan Housing Ventures, are thankful for the funding and operational support from the federal, provincial and municipal governments. Permanent supportive housing is an investment in people and community, and this new building in northeast Edmonton will bring dignity, safety and greater health outcomes to those who are most vulnerable in our community.”Stuart Kehrig, president, Right at Home Housing Society
“NiGiNan exists to serve people in need by providing affordable and permanent supportive housing in Edmonton. With this project, the Right At Home Housing Society stepped into a partnership with NiGiNan and demonstrated true allyship. Together, we are making headway on reconcil ACTION in the housing sector.”-Carola Cunningham, chief executive officer, NiGiNan Housing Ventures
Alberta’s Recovery Plan is a bold, ambitious long-term strategy to build, diversify, and create tens of thousands of jobs now. By building schools, roads and other core infrastructure, we are benefiting our communities. By diversifying our economy and attracting investment with Canada’s most competitive tax environment, we are putting Alberta on a path for a generation of growth. Alberta came together to save lives by flattening the curve and now we must do the same to save livelihoods, grow and thrive.
Quick facts
- Residents will begin moving into their new homes on Oct. 1.
- Tenants will be close to transit and local amenities.
- This project is part of the more than $10 billion infrastructure spending announced as part of Alberta’s Recovery Plan.
- This spending includes:
- $6.9 billion Budget 2020 capital spending
- $980 million accelerated for Capital Maintenance and Renewal
- $200 million for Strategic Transportation Infrastructure Program and water infrastructure projects
- $600 million in strategic infrastructure projects and $500 million in municipal infrastructure
- $1.5 billion for Keystone XL
- The Government of Canada is currently rolling out its National Housing Strategy, an ambitious 10-year, $55-billion plan that will create 125,000 new housing units and lift 530,000 families out of housing need, as well as repair and renew more than 300,000 housing units and reduce chronic homelessness by 50 per cent.
- The National Housing Strategy is built on strong partnerships between federal, provincial, and territorial governments, and on continuous engagement with others, including municipalities, Indigenous governments and organizations, and the social and private sectors to make a meaningful difference in the lives of Canadians.
