New affordable duplex in Okotoks complete thanks to community support

In February, we celebrated the completion of a duplex in the D'ARCY community of Okotoks that will provide affordable home ownership opportunities to two local families.

We were thankful to be joined by many of the supporters who have helped to make the project possible, along with Avon, Romano and their kids who recently moved into one of the homes.

"Now that we've moved into our dream home, we feel the comfort of living in a decent, beautiful, and secure home without tiring ourselves to work double or triple shifts, as well as leaving us enough energy."

- Avon, homeowner in Okotoks

Avon, Romano and their two kids Lorenzo and Nina are officially homeowners in Okotoks

The Town of Okotoks is working to create a continuum of housing options, including affordable and subsidized housing.

Okotoks Mayor Bill Roberston who was in attendance acknowledged that the new Habitat homes help fulfill that need.

“Residents have consistently indicated a need to diversify our housing to create a more inclusive community,” he said.

“These housing units are a wonderful addition for Okotoks, and a needed step in creating more affordable housing options for our residents so they have choices for homes at all stages of their lives.”

Mayor Bill Robertson joined us to bring greetings on behalf of the Town of Okotoks.

The Foothills Chapter of Habitat for Humanity was formed in 2012 and has now built a total of four homes in the region.

At the heart of these accomplishments are the regional volunteer committee members, who are local champions in the community, giving their time and energy towards raising funds, working with families, and advocating for the need for affordable home ownership.

Cornene Loewen is one of those champions and has been on the committee since 2014. 

Corene Loewen and the regional volunteer committee in have been instrumental in making affordable home ownership opportunities an option for families in the Foothills

"It's really amazing to see, actually. This is the third family I've seen buy a Habitat home and it's just life changing for them, especially for the children," Corene said.

"You can see how that support is long-lasting across generations. They move into a home now, they're not so stretched financially, they spend more time together, the kids are well adjusted, and they do better in school."