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ST. CATHARINES, June 4, 2009 – The Government of Canada, the Government of Ontario, Niagara Region, the City of St. Catharines, and Niagara Regional Housing today celebrated the start of construction of a new apartment complex that will provide nine units of affordable housing in St. Catharines. The project received $630,000 in funding through the Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program.

Rick Dykstra, Member of Parliament for St. Catharines, on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada and Minister Responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation; Jim Bradley, MPP for St. Catharines, on behalf of the Honourable Jim Watson, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing; Niagara Regional Chair Peter Partington, and St. Catharines Mayor Brian McMullan made the announcement today.

“The Government of Canada is delivering on its commitment to help those at risk of becoming homeless,” said MP Rick Dykstra. “We are proud to support community efforts that help find local solutions to local problems. Through this investment, the Gateway Residential and Community Support Services and Mainstream Services, will provide safe and supportive housing to people with special needs, and help them turn a new page in their lives.”

“The McGuinty government is committed to working together with our partners to create housing for those who need it most,” said MPP Bradley. “I am very pleased that we are able to support Niagara Region and the City of St. Catharines in creating new supportive housing that will help the most vulnerable in our community to live in quality housing.”

The project, sponsored by Gateway Residential and Community Support Services of Niagara and Mainstream: An Unsheltered Workshop, will provide nine units of supportive housing for vulnerable persons in St. Catharines. Today’s federal and provincial allocation will be complemented by $125,850 in municipal financial incentives.

“This new 9-unit supportive housing development in downtown St. Catharines is another great example of partnership in action,” said Regional Chair Partington. “Increasing access to supportive housing will assist some of Niagara’s most vulnerable citizens. I am proud that Niagara Region is able to continue its legacy of Building Communities, Building Lives.”

“This project represents what can be achieved by government and community-based agencies when we work together,” said Mayor Brian McMullan. “As a result of this collaborative effort, some of our community’s most vulnerable citizens will have a safe and affordable home with the specialized supports they require — something they would not have had otherwise.”

“Gateway Mainstream are proud to be entering into a partnership that will create nine new units of affordable supportive housing in downtown St. Catharines,” said Gateway Executive Director John Osczypko.

The Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program comprises a commitment of $301 million from each of the two senior levels of government. In total, the federal, provincial and municipal governments will invest at least $734 million in the program, which will provide affordable housing for 20,000 households in Ontario.

Last fall, the Government of Canada committed more than $1.9 billion over the next five years to improve and build new affordable housing and to help the homeless. Canada’s Economic Action Plan builds on this with an additional one-time investment of more than $2 billion over two years in new and existing social housing and lending of up to another $2 billion to municipalities for housing-related infrastructure.

Media Inquiries:

For more information visit:  http://www.mah.gov.on.ca

Article source: http://www.cmhc.ca/en/corp/nero/nere/2009/2009-06-04-1000.cfm

TORONTO, ON, June 9, 2009 — The Government of Canada and the Province of Ontario are partnering on a joint investment to build new and renovate existing affordable housing. This investment will help create jobs, strengthen the economy, and improve the quality of life for residents of Ontario.

Both levels of government officially signed an amendment to the Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program Agreement, resulting in a joint investment of more than $1.2 billion over the next two years.

The Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada and Minister Responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) and the Honourable Jim Watson, Ontario Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, made the announcement today.

“This government is working hard to support Canadians during these challenging economic times, and we are moving aggressively to ensure Canada’s Economic Action Plan is implemented rapidly,” said Minister Finley. “We are helping the most vulnerable, including seniors and persons with disabilities, access suitable, affordable housing, as well as making needed renovations to existing social housing both in Ontario and across Canada.”

“The McGuinty government is pleased to be working with our federal partners to increase the supply of affordable housing,” said Minister Watson. “This investment will stimulate our economy while improving access to safe, healthy and affordable housing. For many people, living on fixed or low incomes, these programs are their opportunity to get a place to call home.”

Today’s announcement includes federal funding of $535 million over two years under Canada’s Economic Action Plan as part of a one-time investment of more than $2 billion to build new and renovate existing social housing in Canada. The Province will also contribute $535 million for these initiatives, over the next two years.

These investments build upon the $1.9 billion commitment for housing and homelessness programs announced by the Government of Canada in September 2008, which extended the Affordable Housing Initiative and the renovation programs for low-income households for two years.

Overall, the federal contribution from these investments is $622 million, while the Province is contributing a further $622 million for the combined investment of more than $1.2 billion.

CMHC has been Canada’s national housing agency for more than 60 years. CMHC is committed to helping Canadians access a wide choice of quality, affordable homes and making vibrant and sustainable communities and cities a reality across the country.

To find out more about how the Government of Canada and CMHC are working to build stronger homes and communities for all Canadians, call CMHC at 1-800-668-2642 or visit www.cmhc.ca/housingactionplan. For more information on Canada’s Economic Action Plan, call 1-800-O Canada or visit www.actionplan.gc.ca.

Media Contacts:

Backgrounder

Investments in Affordable Housing for Canadians

The Government of Canada’s commitment to affordable housing is significant.

Overall, Canada’s Economic Action Plan provides a total of $7.8 billion to build quality housing, stimulate construction, create jobs, encourage home ownership and enhance the energy efficiency of Canadian homes. In the process, it will provide new and renovated housing for more than 200,000 Canadian households.

Of the $7.8 billion, more than $2 billion is provided through CMHC to build new and renovate existing social housing. This will include:

• $1 billion for social housing renovation;
• $600 million for new housing and repairs to existing social housing on-reserve and in the North broken down as follows:
  • $400 million for on-reserve communities
  • $200 million for the North
• $400 million for housing for low-income seniors; and
• $75 million for housing for people with disabilities.

Most of this funding, $1.525 billion of the more than $2 billion, is being delivered by provinces and territories through amendments to existing agreements. Provinces and territories will design and deliver these initiatives, as well as cost-match the federal investment.

The federal government will directly deliver the remaining $550 million of this $2 billion funding: $150 million for the renovation and retrofit of social housing projects administered by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), and $400 million in new construction and repair for housing on-reserve through CMHC and Indian and Northern Affairs Canada.

These investments build upon the $1.9 billion commitment for housing and homelessness programs announced by the Government of Canada in September 2008, which extended the Affordable Housing Initiative and the renovation programs for low-income households for two years. Overall, for both the stimulus funding and the AHI extension, the federal contribution is $622 million, while the Province is contributing a further $622 million for the combined investment of more than $1.2 billion.

In addition, as part of the two-year extension of the renovation programs, $73 million in federal funding will be available to assist low income households with needed renovations to their homes.

As well, up to $2 billion in low-cost repayable loans for housing-related infrastructure projects will be made available to towns and cities across the country.

The Government of Canada, through CMHC, spends approximately $1.7 billion annually to support almost 625,000 low- and moderate-income households in existing social housing across Canada. In Ontario, the federal government provides almost $739 million annually to support some 238,500 households.

Article source: http://www.cmhc.ca/en/corp/nero/nere/2009/2009-06-09-1100.cfm

ST. THOMAS, July 10, 2009 — The Government of Canada, the Province of Ontario and the City of St. Thomas today announced $420,000 to fund a construction-ready project.

The funding was made available as a result of a $1.2 billion joint investment under the amended Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program Agreement, which includes funding through Canada’s Economic Action Plan and by the Government of Ontario. The federal and provincial governments are contributing equally to this overall investment.

Today’s announcement recognized the successful application by Novi Construction Limited to build six units of affordable housing for low-income families.

Joe Preston, Member of Parliament for Elgin – Middlesex – London, on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada and Minister Responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC); and Steve Peters, Member of Provincial Parliament for Elgin – Middlesex – London; along with City of St. Thomas Mayor Cliff Barwick, made the announcement today.

“This Government is working hard to support Canadians during these challenging economic times and we are moving aggressively to ensure Canada’s Economic Action Plan is implemented rapidly,” said MP Preston. “With these investments in Ontario, we are making an important difference in the lives of some of our community’s most vulnerable citizens. Low-income seniors, families and persons with disabilities will soon have access to suitable, affordable housing.”

“New housing initiatives add significant support to the Ontario government’s Poverty Reduction Strategy,” said MPP Peters. “This first wave of funding will lead to construction by September and senior government will continue to work with our municipal partners to ensure more units are built during the life of this program.”

“The City of St. Thomas is very pleased to once again partner with our Federal and Provincial Governments through the Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program,” said Mayor Barwick. “This project will create new affordable rental housing in an area of the City where the demand is very high. Not only will this partnership help us meet housing needs, it will also create economic opportunities and construction jobs in our community.”

Ontario is moving quickly to implement this new funding, which increases the number of quick start projects to 33 totalling $54.7 million and which will improve access to affordable housing for low-income families, seniors and persons with disabilities. It will also create jobs and strengthen local economies. To find out more about affordable housing in Ontario, visit www.mah.gov.on.ca.

Last fall, the Government of Canada committed more than $1.9 billion over the next five years to improve and build new affordable housing and to help the homeless. Canada’s Economic Action Plan builds on this with an additional one-time investment of more than $2 billion over two years in new and existing social housing and lending of up to another $2 billion to municipalities for housing-related infrastructure.

To find out more about how the Government of Canada and CMHC are working to build stronger homes and communities for all Canadians, call CMHC at 1-800-668-2642 or visit www.cmhc.ca/housingactionplan. For more information on Canada’s Economic Action Plan, call  1-800-O Canada or visit www.actionplan.gc.ca.

Media Inquiries:

For more information visit: www.ontario.ca/housing

ST. THOMAS, July 10, 2009  — The Government of Canada, the Province of Ontario and the City of St. Thomas announced that the federal and provincial governments,  is providing $420,000 through the amended Canada-Ontario Affordable Housing Program Agreement  which includes funding through Canada’s Economic Action Plan and by the Government of Ontario. to fund a construction-ready project.

From left: St. Thomas Alderman Lori Baldurn-Sands, Judith Binder, CMHC District Manager for Southwestern Ontario, Elgin – Middlesex – London MPP Steve Peters, Nick and Joe Ostogic of Novi Construction

Article source: http://www.cmhc.ca/en/corp/nero/nere/2009/2009-07-10-1630.cfm

TORONTO, ON, May 24, 2013 — The governments of Canada and Ontario celebrated today the renovation of two rental housing buildings for low-income families, located at 1765 and 1775 Weston Road, in Toronto.

Ted Opitz, Member of Parliament for Etobicoke Centre, on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development and Minister Responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC); Laura Albanese, Member of Provincial Parliament for York South-Weston, on behalf of the Honourable Linda Jeffrey, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing; Frances Nunziata, City of Toronto Councillor (Ward 11, York South-Weston) made the announcement today.

“Repairing rental properties not only helps to build strong and healthy communities but most importantly, it improves the quality of life for residents,” said MP Opitz. “Our Government remains focused on four priorities, as outlined by the Prime Minister, that Canadians care most about: their families, the safety of our streets and communities, their pride in being a citizen of this country, and of course, their personal financial security.”

“With the renovation of this rental housing complex in Toronto, residents now have access to more stable, safe and affordable homes”, said MPP Albanese. “Our Government is proud to invest in affordable housing in Toronto to help improve the quality of life for people in need of a hand up while also creating jobs and stimulating the economy.”

“I want to congratulate Roslyn Brown and her team for the great work they’ve done repairing and reviving rental units in my community,” said Councillor Nunziata. “This is a great success story thanks to a strong partnership between the federal and provincial governments, a private landlord and the City of Toronto.”

The $1.8 million investment provided by the federal and provincial governments has been used to renovate 17 units affected by water damage. As well, overall improvements to the buildings include new energy-efficient boiler systems, new elevators and new roofs. This funding comes from the $481 million Investment in Affordable Housing 2011 – 2014 Agreement between the Governments of Canada and Ontario.

“The newly installed elevators provide our tenants with a safe and dependable way to get where they’re going,” said Roslyn Brown, Vice President at Weston Property Management. “With funding also going towards energy-efficient heating, we can pass on these cost-saving measures to our tenants and redirect money to improving building services and common areas.”

The Government of Canada, through CMHC, will invest approximately $2 billion in housing this year. Of this amount, $1.7 billion will be spent in support of close to 594,000 households living in existing social housing. In Ontario, this represents an estimated 237,950 households. These investments are improving the quality of life for low-income Canadians and households living in existing social housing, including individuals who are homeless or at-risk of homelessness, seniors and persons with disabilities, recent immigrants and Aboriginal people.

Ontario continues to build new affordable housing and repair existing units for Ontarians with housing needs. Since 2003, Ontario’s funding commitment of nearly $3 billion is the largest affordable housing program in the province’s history. Ontario is supporting the creation of over 17,000 affordable rental housing units; making more than 263,000 repairs and improvements to social and affordable housing units; and providing rental down payment assistance to over 81,000 households in need. The province’s Long-Term Affordable Housing Strategy sets a strong foundation for a more efficient, accessible affordable housing system in Ontario.

Affordable housing is a key component of Ontario’s Poverty Reduction Strategy. To find out more about affordable housing in Ontario, visit www.ontario.ca/housing. For more information about affordable housing in Toronto, visit www.toronto.ca/affordablehousing.

To find out more about how the Government of Canada and CMHC are working to build stronger homes and communities for all Canadians, call CMHC at 1-800-668-2642.

Media contacts:

Dean D’Souza
CMHC
416-250-2760

Jan O’Driscoll
Office of Minister Finley
819-994-2482

Yanni Dagonas
Office of Minister Jeffrey
416-585-6853

Gil Hardy
City of Toronto
416-397-4701

For more information visit:

www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca
www.ontario.ca/housing
www.toronto.ca/affordablehousing

Article source: http://www.cmhc.ca/en/corp/nero/nere/2013/2013-05-24-1000.cfm

WINDSOR, ON, August 19, 2009 — Habitat for Humanity Windsor – Essex Inc. (HFHWE), Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) and Can-Am Urban Native Non-Profit Homes (Can-Am) joined together to break ground on a new home for a First Nations family today.

Today’s groundbreaking marks an important milestone for Habitat for Humanity Windsor – Essex. They are also celebrating 50 builds in the City of Windsor. Since 1994, HFH Windsor – Essex been coordinating volunteers and collecting building materials and funding to help families secure a home.

This build is the first Ontario partnership between an urban First Nation organization and Habitat to build a home specifically for a First Nations family under Habitat’s Aboriginal Housing Program that aims to help more Aboriginal families access homeownership. The Government of Canada, through CMHC, is a gold sponsor for Habitat for Humanity Canada and the lead national sponsor for Habitat for Humanity Aboriginal Housing Program.

“I would like to congratulate Habitat Windsor – Essex on this important milestone event,” said Jeff Watson, Member of Parliament for Essex, on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada and Minister Responsible for CMHC. “Affordable housing is an important part of our government’s commitment to build stronger, healthier and more sustainable communities. We are dedicated to working in partnership with organizations like Habitat to address housing needs in Ontario and across the country.”

All Habitat homes are built by volunteers and the successful applicant families under the supervision of professionals. This is a cost-effective way of producing a home while giving families the opportunity to participate in the construction of their own residence.

“It’s my great honour to work for this organization and its committed donors, partners, volunteers and staff on this landmark build,” says Laura Gould, Executive Director of HFHWE. “Seeing the difference these homes have made in the lives of children, is heart warming and visible proof that Habitat is indeed building hope.

“I’m elated to see that, in their 15^th year, Habitat Windsor – Essex is completing their 50^th partner home and building their first home for First Nations family,” says long-time supporter and past HFHWE President, Rick Farrow. “I applaud their continued efforts to address the ongoing housing concerns in our community.”

Also partnering on this project is Can-Am Urban Native Non-Profit Homes, which was started in 1988 by a group of volunteers who recognized an urgent need for affordable housing for First Nations people in the Windsor area. Currently, Can-Am has 81 single family homes, the Nash Kanonhsa Home and the Biimskiinodin Transitional House.

“As a Habitat supporter and build participant in previous years, we’re delighted to have assisted with the recruitment of a local First Nations family. The family is so grateful for this opportunity to reach their dream of home ownership,” says Margaret Messenger, Executive Director of Can-Am.

Overall, Can-Am strives to improve the socioeconomic well-being of First Nations residing in Windsor through various housing initiatives and provides leadership and involvement on various activities and projects.

As Canada’s national housing agency, CMHC has over 60 years experience helping Canadians access a variety of quality, environmentally sustainable and affordable homes. For more than seven years, CMHC Ontario Region has supported Habitat through staff support and charitable activities. CMHC has supported this build with a $10,000 Seed funding commitment, as well as a $10,000 donation from staff charitable activities and its contributions through Habitat’s Aboriginal Housing Program.

Habitat for Humanity Windsor – Essex is a non-profit, faith-based organization working for a world where everyone has a safe and decent place to live. Their mission is to mobilize volunteers and community partners in building affordable housing and promoting home-ownership as a means to breaking the cycle of poverty.

For further information, please contact:

For more information visit:
http://www.habitatwindsor.org
http://www.caunh.ca

See related speech

Article source: http://www.cmhc.ca/en/corp/nero/nere/2009/2009-08-19-1300.cfm

THOROLD, ON, September 25, 2009 — The Government of Canada, the Government of Ontario, Niagara Region, the City of St. Catharines and Niagara Regional Housing today celebrated the official opening of a converted apartment building that provides 21 new affordable housing units in St. Catharines. The project, located at 21 King Street, is supported by $1.47 million in funding through the Ontario – Canada Affordable Housing Program.

Rick Dykstra, Member of Parliament for St. Catharines, on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada and Minister Responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC); Jim Bradley, Member of Provincial Parliament for St. Catharines, on behalf of the Honourable Jim Watson, Ontario’s Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing; Peter Partington, Regional Chair, Niagara Region; and Brian McMullan, Mayor of St. Catharines, along with guests and tenants, attended the event.

“The Government of Canada is committed to making affordable housing available in Ontario and across Canada for those who need it most,” said MP Dykstra. “These new apartments provide more rental options for individuals and families in need of suitable, affordable housing, and are important to the economic and social well-being of the St. Catharines community.”

“This project will enrich not only the lives of individuals and families, but the entire community,” said MPP Bradley. “I look forward to continuing working with our partners to build more affordable housing in Niagara region.”

Today’s announcement recognized the opening of a 25-unit housing facility that provides 21 affordable housing units for individuals and families, five of which are supportive and four of which are market rent units. The federal and provincial allocations to the project were complemented by almost $350,000 in municipal funding. The project also received $20,000 of SEED grant funding through CMHC.

“This new housing development in downtown St. Catharines is a great example of the federal, provincial and Niagara regional governments working together to improve the lives of citizens,” said Peter Partington, Niagara Regional Chairman. “By increasing access to affordable and supportive housing, we’re helping some of Niagara’s most vulnerable citizens. I am proud that Niagara Region is able to support this much needed development.”

“I welcome this investment, not only in downtown but also in affordable housing,” said Brian McMullan, Mayor of St. Catharines. “As we move forward with plans to revitalize our city’s core, we must ensure a variety of housing options are available for all residents wishing to live downtown.”

“This is a great opportunity to turn a 10-year vacant property into affordable housing for the residents of Niagara while at the same time revitalizing the downtown St. Catharines area,” said Albert Perez, Director of 21 King Street Inc.

The Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program comprises a commitment of $301 million from each of the two senior levels of government. In total, the federal, provincial and municipal governments will invest at least $734 million in the program, which will provide affordable housing for up to 20,000 households in Ontario.

Last fall, the Government of Canada committed more than $1.9 billion over the next five years to improve and build new affordable housing and to help the homeless. Canada’s Economic Action Plan builds on this with an additional one-time investment of more than $2 billion over two years in new and existing social housing and lending of up to another $2 billion to municipalities for housing-related infrastructure. Combined for Ontario, this means a further $1.2-billion joint investment under the amended Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program Agreement. The federal and provincial governments are contributing equally to this overall investment.

Ontario is moving quickly to implement this additional funding, which increases the number of “quick start” projects to 39 totaling over $76.5 million and which will improve access to affordable housing for low-income families, seniors and persons with disabilities. It will also create jobs and strengthen local economies. To find out more about affordable housing in Ontario, visit www.mah.gov.on.ca.

To find out more about how the Government of Canada and CMHC are working to build stronger homes and communities for all Canadians, call CMHC at 1-800-668-2642 or visit www.cmhc.ca/housingactionplan. For more information on Canada’s Economic Action Plan, call 1-800-O Canada or visit www.actionplan.gc.ca.

Media Inquiries:

For more information visit: www.ontario.ca/housing

See related speech

Article source: http://www.cmhc.ca/en/corp/nero/nere/2009/2009-09-25-1030.cfm

VAUGHAN, ON, May 17, 2013 — The Government of Canada, the Government of Ontario and the Regional Municipality of York celebrated the official opening of 84 affordable housing rental units for low-income seniors at Mapleglen Residences. The project is supported by more than $5.8 million in funding through the Canada-Ontario Affordable Housing Program. The construction of this project created up to 210 jobs in York Region.

The Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of International Cooperation and Member of Parliament for Vaughan, on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development and Minister Responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC); Steven Del Duca, Member of Provincial Parliament for Vaughan, on behalf of the Honourable Linda Jeffrey, Ontario’s Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing; Bill Fisch, York Region Chairman and CEO; and Maurizio Bevilacqua, Mayor of the City of Vaughan, made the announcement.

“The Government of Canada is helping to make affordable housing available in Ontario and across Canada for those who need it the most. These new units in Vaughan are helping seniors access safe and affordable housing, and build a stronger future for themselves,” said Minister Fantino. “Our Government remains focused on four priorities, as outlined by the Prime Minister, that Canadians care most about: their families, the safety of our streets and communities, their pride in being a citizen of this country, and of course, their personal financial security.”

“Our government is committed to improving access to housing that is affordable and secure for Ontario’s seniors,” said MPP Del Duca. “Projects like Mapleglen provide a sense of dignity, pride of home and independence deserved by all Ontarians, especially our seniors.”

“York Region’s contribution of more than $9 million for Mapleglen Residences demonstrates our ongoing commitment to provide safe and affordable independent living options for our senior residents in need,” said York Region Chairman and CEO Bill Fisch. “Mapleglen Residences validates what can happen when we all successfully work together. Together we have built a community contributing to a worthy cause that will benefit seniors for generations to come.”

“Mapleglen is an outstanding example of effective government partnerships delivering results for the City of Vaughan,” said Vaughan Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua. “This new seniors’ residence is a testament to our commitment to providing a quality of life and a level of comfort that our seniors deserve. Seniors are an important part of our community and the City of Vaughan is pleased to be a part of this affordable housing project, which allows our seniors to live active and independent lives.”

The building overlooks Civic Park and is located at 2185, Major Mackenzie Drive. Mapleglen Residences includes 68 one-bedroom units and 16 two-bedroom units. Residents are within walking distance to shopping, public transit and the Vaughan City Hall. The joint federal and provincial funding is complemented by $9.8 million in municipal financial incentives from the Regional Municipality of York.

The Government of Canada, through CMHC, will invest approximately $2 billion in housing this year. Of this amount, $1.7 billion will be spent in support of close to 594,000 households living in existing social housing. In Ontario, this represents some 237,950 households. These investments are improving the quality of life for low-income Canadians and households living in existing social housing, including individuals who are homeless or at-risk of homelessness, seniors, persons with disabilities, recent immigrants and Aboriginal people.

Ontario continues to build new affordable housing and repair existing units for Ontarians with housing needs. Since 2003, Ontario’s funding commitment of nearly $3 billion is the largest affordable housing program in the province’s history. Ontario is supporting the creation of over 17,000 affordable rental housing units, making more than 263,000 repairs and improvements to social and affordable housing units, and providing rental down payment assistance to over 81,000 households in need. The province’s Long-Term Affordable Housing Strategy sets a strong foundation for a more efficient, accessible affordable housing system in Ontario.

Affordable housing is a key component of Ontario’s Poverty Reduction Strategy. To find out more about affordable housing in Ontario, visit www.ontario.ca/housing. For more information about the Regional Municipality of York, visit www.york.ca.

To find out more about how the Government of Canada and CMHC are working to build stronger homes and communities for all Canadians, call CMHC at 1-800-668-2642.

Media contacts:

Dean D’Souza
CMHC
416-250-2760

Jan O’Driscoll
Office of Minister Finley
819-994-2482

Yanni Dagonas
Office of Minister Jeffrey
416-585-6853

Jennifer Mitchell-Emmerson
Regional Municipality of York
905-955-2533

For more information visit:

www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca
www.ontario.ca/housing
www.york.ca

See related speech

Article source: http://www.cmhc.ca/en/corp/nero/nere/2013/2013-05-17-1100.cfm

WINDSOR, ON, December 10, 2009 — Habitat for Humanity Windsor – Essex Inc. (HFHWE), Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) and Can-Am Urban Native Non-Profit Homes (Can-Am) joined together to celebrate the completion of a new home for a First Nation family today.

Today’s dedication ceremony marks an important milestone for Habitat for Humanity Windsor – Essex. They are also celebrating 50 builds in the City of Windsor. Since 1994, HFH Windsor – Essex has been coordinating volunteers and collecting building materials and funding to help families secure a home.

This build is the first Ontario partnership between an urban First Nation organization and Habitat to build a home specifically for a First Nation family under Habitat’s Aboriginal Housing Program that aims to help more Aboriginal families access homeownership.

CMHC is the Lead National Partner for the Habitat for Humanity Aboriginal Housing Program. CMHC has supported this build with a $10,000 SEED funding commitment and a $10,000 donation from staff charitable activities, as well as CMHC’s ongoing work in support of Habitat’s Aboriginal Housing Program.

“Safe and affordable housing is particularly critical for our most vulnerable citizens, including Aboriginal Canadians,” said Jeff Watson, Member of Parliament for Essex, on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada and Minister Responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. “The Government of Canada, through CMHC, is proud to be the lead partner with Habitat for Humanity in helping to find creative housing solutions for Aboriginal families.”

All Habitat homes are built by volunteers and the successful applicant families under the supervision of professionals. This is a cost-effective way of producing a home while giving families the opportunity to participate in the construction of their own residence.

“I’m very fortunate to have worked alongside our committed staff, volunteers, donors, community collaborators and partner family toward the successful completion of the 50^th house of Habitat for Humanity Windsor-Essex Inc.,” says Laura Gould, Executive Director of HFHWE. “We’re also very proud that our landmark 50^th build is Energy Star certified and part of Habitat Canada’s Aboriginal Housing Program”.

“It’s inspiring to see the significant and positive impact the Windsor – Essex Affiliate has had on our community. They have hosted both national and international events, including the Ed Schreyer Work Project, the Annual Jimmy Carter Work Project as well as a Women’s Build and Student Builds,” says past HFHWE President, Rick Farrow. “It’s wonderful to see that in their 15^th year, they not only completed their 50^th partner home but their first home for a First Nation family.”

Also partnering on this project is Can-Am Urban Native Non-Profit Homes, which was started in 1988 by a group of volunteers who recognized an urgent need for affordable housing for First Nations people in the Windsor area. Currently, Can-Am has 81 single‑family homes, the Nash Kanonhsa Home and the Biimskiinodin Transitional House.

“Can-Am Urban Native Homes’ mandate is to provide safe, affordable rental housing in good neighbourhoods,” says Margaret Messenger, Executive Director of Can-Am. “The greatest testament to our success is to have tenants go on to homeownership.”

Overall, Can-Am strives to improve the socioeconomic well-being of First Nations residing in Windsor through various housing initiatives and provides leadership and involvement on various activities and projects.

Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation has been Canada’s national housing agency for over 60 years. CMHC is committed to helping Canadians access a wide choice of quality, affordable homes, while making vibrant, healthy communities and cities a reality across the country. 

Habitat for Humanity Windsor – Essex is a non-profit, faith-based organization working for a world where everyone has a safe and decent place to live. Their mission is to mobilize volunteers and community partners in building affordable housing and promoting homeownership as a means to breaking the cycle of poverty.

For further information, please contact:

For more information visit:

http://www.habitatwindsor.org
http://www.caunh.ca

Article source: http://www.cmhc.ca/en/corp/nero/nere/2009/2009-12-10-1100.cfm

TORONTO, ONTARIO, February 26, 2010 — The Renewable Energy Initiative was introduced today as a first step in a program application process, through funding of $70 million for energy efficiency upgrades of existing social and new affordable housing projects. Announcements will be made this spring on requests for quotations from suppliers and on the application process so that organizations can apply for funding.

The Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development and Minister Responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) and Jim Bradley, Ontario Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing made the announcement.

The federal and provincial governments are contributing equally to this investment as part of the Government of Canada’s funding announced under Canada’s Economic Action Plan for Ontario. This will lead to improved energy efficiency and support the purchase and installation of renewable energy systems in existing and new affordable housing that are capable of generating energy and selling surplus energy back into the electrical grid.

“Through Canada’s Economic Action Plan, the Harper government is committed to making communities stronger through investments in safe and energy efficient housing,” said Minister Finley. “These investments create and sustain local jobs and invest in our future.”

“The McGuinty government is taking steps to make Ontario’s social and affordable housing more energy efficient. ” said Minister Bradley. “This initiative will help promote green industry and create new jobs here.”

The funding for today’s announcement is part of a joint investment of more than $1.2 billion over two years through an amendment to the Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program Agreement which was announced in June 2009.

The Government of Canada wants to improve the quality of existing social housing to ensure that Canadians on fixed incomes can live with independence and dignity in their communities, close to family and friends. Canada’s Economic Action Plan provides over two years $850 million for the renovation and retrofit of existing social housing, plus a further $475 million to build new rental housing for low-income seniors and persons with disabilities. These new housing investments also address Canada’s goals with respect to climate change and the environment. Overall, the Economic Action Plan includes $2 billion for new and existing social housing, plus up to $2 billion in loans to municipalities for housing-related infrastructure. Canada’s Economic Action Plan builds on the Government of Canada’s commitment in 2008 of more than $1.9 billion, over the next five years, to improve and build new affordable housing and help the homeless.

Ontario is investing $704 million to repair eligible social housing across the province.  In addition, the province has already approved more than $382 million for construction-ready projects, which will improve access to affordable housing for low-income families, seniors and persons with disabilities across the province. It will also create jobs and strengthen local economies. To find out more about affordable housing in Ontario, visit www.mah.gov.on.ca.

More information on this and other measures in Canada’s Economic Action Plan can be found at: www.actionplan.gc.ca. To find out more about how the Government of Canada and CMHC are working to build stronger homes and communities for all Canadians, call CMHC at 1-800-668-2642 or visit: www.cmhc.ca/housingactionplan.

Media Inquiries:

For more information visit: www.mah.gov.on.ca.

Article source: http://www.cmhc.ca/en/corp/nero/nere/2010/2010-02-26-1130.cfm

AYLMER, ONTARIO, May 28, 2010 — Funding of more than $1.7 million for 23 new affordable housing rental units for low-income seniors and persons with disabilities was announced today.

Joe Preston, Member of Parliament for Elgin – Middlesex – London, on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development and Minister Responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC); Steve Peters, Member of Provincial Parliament for Elgin – Middlesex – London; and Bob Habkirk, Mayor of the Town of Aylmer, made the announcement.

“Locally, this achievement gives a hand-up to seniors and persons with disabilities  who need safe, affordable housing that meets their needs,” said MP Preston. “Our government is investing in this project to get the local economy moving, creating immediate jobs and economic stimulus for the community.”

“These 23 affordable rental units will make a difference in the lives of seniors and persons with disabilities,” said MPP Peters. “This project is an example of what great partnerships can achieve. I am looking forward to seeing more projects getting off the ground.”

“The Town of Aylmer is very pleased with the Brown Street project moving forward,” said Mayor Habkirk. “It will provide much needed affordable housing for the Town, and meets an identified need for the East Elgin area. The Town welcomes it to our community.”

The 23 affordable rental unit project located at 69 Brown Street received more than $1.7 million. The federal and provincial funding is complemented by more than $361,000 in municipal financial incentives.

The Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program Agreement comprises a commitment of $301 million from each of the two senior levels of government. In total, the federal, provincial and municipal governments will invest at least $734 million in the program, which will provide affordable housing for up to 20,000 households in Ontario.

In 2008, the Government of Canada committed more than $1.9 billion over five years to improve and build new affordable housing and to help the homeless. Canada’s Economic Action Plan builds on this and provides $475 million, over two years, to build new rental housing for seniors and persons with disabilities. Overall, the Economic Action Plan includes $2 billion over two years in new and existing social housing and another $2 billion in loans to municipalities for housing-related infrastructure. Combined for Ontario, this means a further $1.2 billion joint investment under the amended Canada – Ontario Affordable Housing Program Agreement. The federal and provincial governments are contributing equally to this overall investment.

In 2009, Ontario allocated a combined federal and provincial investment of $704 million for the renovation of social housing, and $540 million for the creation of new affordable housing. This investment is part of the Open Ontario plan, and will create an estimated 23,000 jobs over the course of the program, while strengthening local economies across the province. To date, Ontario has approved more than $459 million for construction-ready projects, which will provide affordable housing for low-income families, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities, and $343 million for repairs benefiting some 148,000 social housing units. To find out more about affordable housing in Ontario, visit www.mah.gov.on.ca.

More information on this and other measures in Canada’s Economic Action Plan can be found at www.actionplan.gc.ca. To find out more about how the Government of Canada and CMHC are working to build stronger homes and communities for all Canadians, call CMHC at 1-800-668-2642 or visit www.cmhc.ca/housingactionplan.

Media Inquiries:

For more information visit: www.mah.gov.on.ca

See related speech

MP Joe Preston celebrates the groundbreaking of another affordable housing project in Elgin County at 69 Brown Street in Aylmer, ON.
Pictured from Left to right: MPP Steve Peters, MP Joe Preston, Peter Ostojic, Aylmer Mayor Bob Habkirk and Joe Ostojic.

Article source: http://www.cmhc.ca/en/corp/nero/nere/2010/2010-05-28-1130.cfm