Chelsey St. Pierre – The Suburban LJI Reporter
Habitat for Humanity is building a six-unit residential condo complex on 7th Avenue in Lachine, which is expected to be complete by next June. More than 150 families have applied as demands for affordable housing have soared due to inflation and the rise in housing costs. Habitat for Humanity Canada’s annual national survey results demonstrate for the second year in a row that a lack of housing affordability ranks as a top concern for Canadians alongside inflation and access to healthcare. The survey revealed that Canadian homeowners and renters are reaching their breaking point when it comes to juggling the increased cost of living. including housing.
“This year’s survey revealed that Canadians continue to worry about their ability to afford housing in this country, not only for themselves, but also for their children,” President and CEO of Habitat for Humanity Canada Julia Deans said. “Despite the increasing challenges facing Canadians, the survey results indicate that Canadians believe action can be taken to tackle our housing issues.”
To be eligible for available units, families need to meet the criteria. “They must have a certain revenue, they must also come from a very difficult situation, in precarious conditions,” Executive director of Habitat for Humanity’s Quebec Shirlane Day told media.
Though every project is helpful to the community, the demand is so high that most families in need will not find an available spot anytime soon, unless changes are made. This project, according to Lachine mayor Maja Vodanovic, is a stellar example of how cooperation between municipalities, private groups and foundations can help move much needed projects forward. “This is very good news. Its a very different way of doing things, they are not attached to pro-government programs, they are independent and these initiatives help to add social housing to the market in a different way.”
Vodanovic says she encourages other West Island mayors to consider adding these projects to their municipal agendas. “It would be nice to see this type of initiative spread. On our part, we were able to give them a piece of land and alleviate some of the fees. Where there is land available, Habitat for Humanity is willing to pick it up and create homes for families. Its a little known fact that they build small projects that integrate with the milieu. I encourage other West Island mayors to consider this.”
“At Habitat for Humanity Canada, we share this belief. The housing crisis can be solved. And everyone has a role to play – governments, financial institutions and investors, home builders and citizens. We must work together to build more, build faster, and invest in all parts of the housing continuum to ensure affordability for all. Strong, healthy communities start with safe and affordable housing,” Deans said.
Habitat for Humanity provides families with a unique model for mortgage payments with no down payment and zero-interest charges. Families who benefit from these properties are required to “pay it forward” with 500 hours of volunteer work helping others.
The Lachine project was made possible by the Montoni Foundation. n