Housing

Canada is in the midst of a housing crisis and municipalities are on the front lines. Housing is more than just a roof over your head, but a place to foster a sense of safety, belonging and economic opportunity. Yet across Canada, safe and affordable housing options are dwindling. This makes it harder for cities and communities to retain residents and attract new businesses.

In 2017, the federal government announced the creation of its National Housing Strategy (NHS), responding to many of FCM’s recommendations. On behalf of municipalities, FCM has been working hard to shape the rollout of the NHS: replacing expiring social housing rent subsidies, tackling backlogged social housing repairs and building the next generation of affordable housing.

In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic required all levels of government to scale-up existing efforts to combat Canada’s housing crisis. FCM worked with the federal government to develop the Rapid Housing Initiative (RHI), a program that funds the quick delivery of deeply affordable housing. Through the RHI, local leaders have been able to help Canadians facing homelessness—by repurposing available buildings, land and modular housing to deliver permanent affordable homes.

Ensuring everyone has a place to live must be our collective priority. This includes action to address all forms of homelessness, ensuring appropriate homes for both young families and seniors. It also means expanding housing in both market and non-market sectors and programs to preserve and upgrade existing affordable housing stock.

We need leadership from all orders of government to tackle the housing affordability crisis. Together, we can make sure everyone in Canada can access a safe, decent and affordable place to call home.