CHRA issued the following news release:
CHRA welcomes another $75 million injection for CMHC´s social housing renovation and retrofit initiative
The federal government will release the second half of the $150 million stimulus funding announced in January´s 2009 as part of Canada's Economic Action Plan. Applications will be accepted beginning February 1, 2010 until February 22, 2010
CMHC's Renovation and Retrofit Initiative will assist existing federally administered social housing projects address renovation and retrofit projects including general improvements, energy efficiency upgrades or conversions, and modifications in supports of persons with disabilities. Regeneration (redevelopment) projects will also be considered on a case-by-case basis.
“Opening the application call in February means that the money will be out the door as quickly as possible. More Canadians will be in safer, more energy efficient housing sooner,” says David Eddy, President of the Canadian Housing and Renewal Association. “We fully support CMHC´s work to make sure that as many groups as possible benefit from the funding. Our country´s affordable housing sector needs this kind of regular investment to upgrade our aging buildings to ensure safer, more environmental friendly living spaces for those most in need.”
The first $75 million benefitted over 700 housing projects last year and the remaining $75 million will be allocated in 2010/11. The deadline for applications for year two funding through the Renovation and Retrofit Initiative is February 22, 2010.
CMHC has mailed application packages directly to eligible sponsor groups. Applications will be accepted for eligible off-reserve federally funded social housing projects administered by CMHC that are currently subject to an operating agreement with CMHC under a National Housing Act social housing program. While most of CHRA´s members are likely covered under renovation and retrofit programs administered provincially or territorially and, therefore, not eligible for this funding, CHRA members in Alberta, Quebec, and PEI may be eligible. Applicants can check their eligibility by contacting CMHC at 1-800-668-2642 or by visitng their website at http://www.cmhc.ca/housingactionplan/reresoho/index.cfm.
Established in 1968, the Canadian Housing and Renewal Association is dedicated to supporting and strengthening the social/affordable housing sector. We are the national non-profit organization representing members across the full continuum of the affordable housing spectrum and are committed to the goal of ensuring everyone living in Canada has decent, affordable housing.