Regina gets funding boost for affordable housing

More affordable housing is coming to the City of Regina because of a funding boost announced by the federal government.

In an announcement Monday, Ottawa said it will be investing $6.6 million for homes through the third round of the Rapid Housing Initiatives City Stream.

This investment is set to help create at least 25 new units.

“Over the years we’ve been working with all orders of government and our community partners to make housing a reality for folks across the country, including in Regina,” Ahmed Hussen, the federal minister of housing and diversity and inclusion, said during a media conference.

He said creating homes for the most vulnerable remains top of mind.

“We know that housing can’t come soon enough for so many members of our community, especially those who need it the most,” Hussen said.

According to Mayor Sandra Masters, Regina city council is currently working on finalizing the sites where the units will be located and awarding contracts to those who will be building them.

“We’ll be working towards trying to get this going as soon as possible,” she said.

Masters added a number of community organizations have indicated an interest in participating in the projects.

“We have no particular preference over another. We’re simply looking for folks who believe they have the land and the ability to produce the units (in) 18 months, so by October 2024,” Masters said.

The mayor also said the city continues to look for housing products that will fit the needs of the individuals experiencing homelessness.

Meanwhile, Hussen said the investment will target people who are experiencing homelessness or who are at risk.

“Twenty-five per cent of these investments (are) targeting women-exclusive housing,” he explained. “So we are not only increasing supports for the services but also for the permanent housing solutions.”

The RHI funding is to facilitate rapid construction of new housing and the acquisition of existing buildings to rehabilitate or convert to permanent affordable housing units.

The units in Regina are anticipated to be complete by the fall of 2024.