Photo: Innovative strategies unveiled by Quebec Housing Cooperative Movement to combat intensifying housing crisis in the Outaouais Region. (TF) Photo courtesy of the CQCH
With notes from Mary Baskin, Marie-Eve Turpin and Lily Ryan
As the housing crisis in the Outaouais region intensifies, the Quebec Housing Cooperative Movement (CQCH), led by Sandra Turgeon, Director General, is implementing innovative strategies to address this complex issue. The CQCH, a pivotal entity in the cooperative housing sector in Quebec, is focused not just on building houses, but on reshaping the cooperative housing framework to meet contemporary needs.
A comprehensive interview with Turgeon shed light on several key future projects and initiatives that the CQCH is undertaking. “We are in the midst of a crisis that calls for a multifaceted approach, one that considers affordability, sustainability, and community needs,” Turgeon stated, emphasizing the need for a broad and inclusive strategy.
One significant future project is the development of approximately 1,000 housing units in the Outaouais region. The aim of this ambitious project, which is a collaboration with the Solidarity Economy Network of Quebec, is to provide a substantial boost to the available housing in the area. Turgeon acknowledged that such large-scale projects require considerable government support and time to realize.
Turgeon also discussed the CQCH’s plans to adapt to the “Habitation Abordable Québec” (HAQ) program, a shift from the previous “AccèsLogis” program. “Adapting to HAQ necessitatesa strategic pivot in our approach to housing projects and funding,” she noted, underlining the need for agility in response to changing policies.
Looking to international models for inspiration, Turgeon highlighted plans to develop a more resilient and independent housing sector in Quebec. “We are drawing lessons from housing strategies in cities like Vienna and Paris, aiming to create a stable and autonomous cooperative housing sector,” she explained, indicating a direction toward innovative, globally-informed solutions.
Furthermore, Turgeon emphasized the CQCH’s commitment to addressing the needs of an aging population within cooperatives. “Developing tools and strategies to maintain comfortable housing for our older members is a priority,” she said, showcasing the organization’s dedication to inclusive and sustainable housing solutions.
The CQCH’s future projects also include enhancing communication and collaboration within the cooperative movement. “By regularly convening with managers and stakeholders across Quebec, we aim to share insights and develop collective solutions to our common challenges,” Turgeon remarked, highlighting the cooperative spirit that guides their efforts.
In addressing the Outaouais region’s housing crisis, Turgeon’s leadership and the CQCH’s innovative, collaborative approach provide hope and direction. The path ahead is laden with challenges, but the organization’s commitment to long-term, sustainable solutions in cooperativehousing is clear and unwavering.