As Canadians face ongoing economic uncertainty and a deepening affordability crisis, the Co-operative Housing Federation of Canada (CHF Canada) is calling on the federal government to act decisively following the Spring Economic Update by renewing rental assistance.
“The Spring Economic Update recognizes the need for stability in uncertain times,” says Tim Ross, CEO at CHF Canada. “Protecting existing affordable homes is one of the fastest, most cost-effective ways the government can deliver stability for Canadians.”
Federal rental assistance programs, including the Federal Community Housing Initiative, the Canada Community Housing Initiative, and the Canada Housing Benefit are set to expire in 2028. Without renewal, thousands of low- and moderate-income households living in housing co-ops and non-profits risk losing the affordability that keeps them housed.
“Rental assistance works. It keeps housing affordable, prevents displacement and provides security to those who need it most,” adds Ross.
CHF Canada is urging the federal government to renew rental assistance for at least ten years and to make it a permanent pillar of Canada’s housing system.
CHF Canada is also calling for targeted federal investments that strengthen communities and support economic resilience, including:
-Prioritizing co-op and non-profit housing within Build Canada Homes to ensure shovel-ready, non-market projects are delivered quickly and at scale;
-Investing at scale in Indigenous-led housing solutions for urban, rural and northern Indigenous communities
-Recapitalizing programs that support the repair and renewal of existing co-op and non-profit homes.
Public opinion consistently shows Canadians want stability, fairness and long-term solutions, especially when it comes to housing. Co-op housing delivers on all three, providing secure, mixed-income homes governed democratically by the people who live there.
Contact:
Nadine Lunt
Manager, Communications
nlunt@chfcanada.coop