May 27, 2021
The City is investing in the development of innovative and community-based affordable housing for First Nations families, newcomers, women and children, and people with disabilities at four locations across Edmonton.
Executive Committee approved $10.37 million in grant funding today under the second round of the Affordable Housing Investment Program. The successful applicants — Avana Rentals, Right at Home Housing Society, and Treaty 8 First Nations of Alberta Holdings Ltd. — will each receive funding for up to 25 per cent of capital costs. The developers will create 124 new units of below-market affordable housing, ranging from studio apartments for youth to four bedroom townhomes for families.
“The City is investing in much more than just buildings. The future residents will not only have a safe, stable and affordable place to call home, but also a network of support to foster their long-term success,” said Christel Kjenner, director of Affordable Housing and Homelessness. “Developments like this will help fill the affordable housing gap while also addressing some of the root causes of homelessness and housing insecurity.”
"Treaty 8, on behalf of its Sovereign Nations extends its heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to the City of Edmonton for today’s Executive Committee approval of $6 million in funding,” said Margo Auger, Chief Administrative Officer, Treaty 8 First Nations of Alberta Holdings Ltd. “It’s an important initial funding commitment that will leverage other needed funds to build the Fort Road Project. Upon completion, these facilities will create Indigenous affordable housing opportunities linked to health care access and child and family supports. Long-standing systemic Indigenous social and health care inequities can now be addressed in Edmonton. This project has been a Chief’s vision for over 10 years.”
“Avana is thrilled to partner with the City of Edmonton to offer much needed affordable housing for women and children. We work closely with the YWCA to maximize the community impact of the newly constructed, safe, attainable housing units,” said Jennifer Denouden, President and CEO, Avana Rentals.
"Right at Homes’ Beacon Heights and St. Paul Legacy projects are a collaborative investment in community. These 32 new, high quality housing units will be a home for many new families to live, learn and have the opportunity to prosper. We are thankful for the support of the City of Edmonton, our faith based partners, and other agencies supporting individuals in need," said Stuart Kehrig, Board President, Right at Home Housing Society.
The $133 million Affordable Housing Investment Plan was launched in 2018 with the goal of creating 2,500 new or refurbished units of affordable housing by 2022. The City is more than halfway to meeting its goal, with funding now approved for the construction of 1,406 units.
