Calgary, AB – Today, Habitat for Humanity Southern Alberta broke ground on new, affordable townhomes in Calgary. The homes will be built on Cornerstone Blvd NE and will provide 11 local families with the opportunity to purchase a home through Habitat’s affordable mortgage with no down payment, no interest, and monthly payments customized to their income.
“At Habitat for Humanity, we know that affordable home ownership is the key to building strong communities and helping families thrive.
"We’re thrilled to join with hundreds of sponsors, donors and volunteers to bring new home ownership opportunities to one of Calgary’s newest and largest Northeast communities.
"We know that these homes will help families build strength, stability and independence, and we can’t wait to get started,” said Gerrad Oishi, President and CEO, Habitat for Humanity Southern Alberta.
Since 2019, the federal government has made a total funding commitment of $4,244,682 towards Habitat Southern Alberta projects including these homes in Cornerstone.
That funding commitment from the National Housing Co-Investment Fund includes a Black Families Funding investment of $1,212,862.
“Our government is excited to partner with Habitat for Humanity Southern Alberta to support the construction of new homes for those who need them the most in Calgary.
"Through the National Housing Strategy, we will continue to support projects like Cornerstone here in Alberta and across the country to ensure everyone has an affordable place to call home,” said George Chahal, Member of Parliament for Calgary Skyview
Eleven per cent of Albertans are in core housing need, paying more than 30 per cent of their income to find housing that is adequate, suitable and affordable for their families.
The Government of Alberta has been a strong partner of Habitat for Humanity Southern Alberta and its mission of providing affordable home ownership opportunities to help address this need.
“Today’s groundbreaking ceremony marks not just the beginning of construction, but promises a new chapter in the lives of the families who will one day live here. In the days and weeks ahead, work will continue to build 11 new units that will provide stable and affordable homes to deserving families.
"New beginnings are a big part of what Habitat for Humanity offers, and Alberta’s government was proud to provide funding to support this project. It shows the impact we can have when the nonprofit sector, private sector, and all orders of government work together to make a difference,” said Josephine Pon, Minister of Seniors and Housing.
The City of Calgary has also been a continued supporter of Habitat for Humanity and affordable home ownership across the city.
"I am excited to see construction start on a Habitat for Humanity project in Cornerstone! They have a great model that helps deserving families take ownership of their homes and I'm confident whoever moves in will love their new house and community, and be welcomed with open arms," said Raj Dhaliwal, Ward 5 Councillor.
The Gerald A. Cooper-Key Foundation provided a generous gift that was instrumental in the realization of these homes.
"We searched and reviewed a broad range of worthy causes and selected Habitat for Humanity. Not only do they address a need but they also have a unique and functional business model making full use of both potential occupants and the community,” said the Gerald A. Cooper-Key Foundation.
Additional support came from several sponsors and community partners, including Hockey Helps the Homeless and many local donors.
Affordable home ownership has a lasting impact on families and communities. Habitat homeowners report experiencing less stress related to housing, that their children are doing better in school, and that they have made more connections in the community since moving into their Habitat home.
The townhomes are expected to be complete in late 2023.