Measures were announced to give Canadians greater access to more affordable housing by the federal government.
This includes doubling the current funding under the Investment in Affordable Housing (IAH) initiative, supporting affordable housing for seniors, building and renovating shelters and transition houses for victims of family violence, and addressing repairs and improving energy and water efficiency of existing social housing.
Over the next two years, almost $74.1 million in funding will be jointly invested in Saskatchewan by the federal and provincial governments in various initiatives to support the housing needs of Saskatchewan citizens.
The Federal Budget 2016 investments in affordable housing will provide targeted support to those who need it most, including in Saskatchewan, and create good jobs that help grow Canada’s economy in a clean and sustainable way. The federal and provincial/territorial governments will work together to deliver the new funding.
“Through new investments in housing, the government is helping to strengthen the economy and improve the quality of life for seniors and families, providing better places to live and grow,” said MP Ralph Goodale, on behalf of Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development.
“The Government of Saskatchewan is proud to work with the Government of Canada to improve affordable housing options for seniors, maintain existing social housing stock, and construct and renovate shelters for victims of family violence,” said Donna Harpauer, Minister for Social Services and Minister responsible for Saskatchewan Housing Corporation. “This investment will help improve the quality of life of Saskatchewan citizens and keep Saskatchewan strong and moving forward.”
The Government of Canada is investing an additional $54.8 million over the next two years to help citizens of Saskatchewan in need access affordable housing.
The funding is in addition to more than $18 million joint annual funding provided by the governments of Canada and Saskatchewan under the IAH agreement to help create more affordable housing options in Saskatchewan.
The Government of Saskatchewan is responsible for choosing the programs they design and deliver, and also has the flexibility to invest in a range of affordable housing programs in order to meet local needs.
Initiatives can include, new construction, renovation, affordability assistance and independent living (accessibility, modifications for persons experiencing disabilities and seniors), and support of accommodations for victims of family violence.
