In November 2017, the Government of Canada unveiled its national housing strategy, which included an important commitment to fund up to 2,400 new housing units for people with developmental disabilities. While this is welcome, more must be done to address the severe gap in Canada’s efforts to alleviate poverty among the most vulnerable.
There is a lengthy wait list for affordable housing with supports for those with developmental disabilities.
Recommendations
Every affordable housing allocation should include a specific amount earmarked for affordable housing for people with disabilities.
The federal government, in partnership with the provinces, should ensure that the national housing strategy is implemented. Ottawa should set a goal of ensuring five cents of every dollar spent on affordable housing goes to units for those with developmental disabilities.