Posted by Moishe Alexander
The Government of Canada announced today that 39 co-operative housing projects located in British Columbia will receive more than $9.4 million, through Canada’s Economic Action Plan, as part of the social housing renovation and retrofit investments.
The announcement was made at the Waterside Housing Co-operative by the Honourable Gary Lunn, Minister of State for Sport and Member of Parliament for Saanich – Gulf Island, on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development and Minister Responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC).
“Through Canada’s Economic Action Plan, our government is taking action to help ensure our economic recovery and create the conditions for long-term growth,” said Minister of State for Sport, Gary Lunn. “Funding renovation and retrofit projects, like this one, will not only improve the quality of life of its residents by keeping their homes safe and affordable, but it will also help stimulate the local economy and create local jobs.”
The Government of Canada, through Canada’s Economic Action Plan, announced $1 billion for social housing renovation and retrofit. Of the $1 billion, $850 million is being delivered by provinces and territories on a cost-matched basis for existing federally assisted social housing projects which they administer on behalf of the partnership. The remaining $150 million is being delivered by CMHC for existing federally assisted off-reserve housing which it directly administers. Eligible repairs include general improvements, energy efficiency upgrades or conversions, and modifications in support of persons with disabilities.
The co-operative housing projects that will receive contributions from the Government of Canada being announced today are listed in the attached backgrounder.
“We congratulate and thank the federal government, Minister of State for Sport, Gary Lunn, and CMHC for making a sound investment to help ensure that this affordable community is preserved as a legacy for the long-term benefit of its residents,” said Ken Elliott, President of the Co-operative Housing Federation of Canada. “Today’s announcement is an excellent example of stimulus funding that works towards preserving jobs, assisting the local economy, and protecting valuable affordable housing assets for Canadians.”
“The members of the Waterside Housing Co-operative are extremely grateful for CMHC’s approval of our grant application which went to installing new countertops and cupboards in 27 units’ kitchens and bathrooms,” said Susan Barron on behalf of the Waterside Housing Co-operative. “The renovations have made members feel a strong sense of pride for their homes and we would like to thank the Canadian Government and CMHC for making it possible.”