Waterloo region marked National Housing Day with an event at the Centre for International Governance Innovation in Waterloo where it was announced the region has surpassed the year two goal in its Building Better Futures plan with 1,154 new affordable homes built in 2022 and 948 in development.
“Non-profit and co-op housing providers play a vital role in our community,” said Regional Chair Karen Redman in a press release. “Not only do they provide affordable housing for thousands of residents, but also they offer a wide range of programs and opportunities for tenants to participate in creating community. This year, we are highlighting the amazing work that they do to build communities together and to ensure that everyone in Waterloo Region has a place to call home.”
Of the 948 affordable homes in development, 247 will be supportive homes and 206 homes will be occupied by the end of the year.
The region's Building Better Futures plan aims to tackle homelessness with a goal to add 2,500 new, affordable units over the next five years.
Tuesday's event included speakers from the Ontario Non-Profit Housing Association, the Co-operative Housing Federation of Canada, and the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, as well as a lived experience guest speaker, among others.
Several awards were also presented to recognize outstanding contributions to community housing.
November 22 is recognized as National Housing Day across Canada to highlight the importance of access to housing.