Anglicans Welcome National Housing Strategy

Ottawa – The Anglican Diocese of Ottawa welcomes the Federal Government’s National Housing Strategy as a sound, flexible framework for long-term planning and sustainable funding.

The Rt. Rev. John Chapman, Bishop of Ottawa, applauded the emphasis in the Strategy on support for the most vulnerable in society. In particular the new National Housing Co-Investment Fund and Federal Lands and the National Housing Benefit are welcome measures to support those in most housing need.

“We share the Federal Government’s vision,” Bishop Chapman said. “Implementation will require a commitment among all governments and partners to get the job done. The government can count on the active support of Anglicans.”

Noting that the Anglican Diocese of Ottawa and the Church nationally have made land and buildings available for affordable housing, Bishop Chapman said measures in the Strategy to free up federal surplus lands will make a significant contribution to affordable housing.

The Anglican Diocese of Ottawa has a longstanding, proven record in affordable housing and homelessness. Its Community Ministries include highly effective, affordable and supportive housing, shelters for women, and day programs from the federal and other orders of government, the broader faith community and the private sector.

Bishop Chapman welcomed the commitment that at least 20 per cent of investments will support projects that specifically target the unique needs of women and girls. Additionally, he said the “balanced approach” to combatting homelessness, with support for preventative strategies as well as existing emergency shelters is good news for those, like Anglican Diocese of Ottawa, that operate both approaches.
 

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