New Community Housing Fund accepting applications for help with housing projects
Islanders in need of assisted living or increased home support will have more help and options through new community-led housing projects.
Non-profits, community-based service organizations, municipalities and developers can now apply for financial support through the new Community Housing Fund – a partnership between the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) and the province. The purpose is to help create more affordable housing options for vulnerable populations, Islanders in assisted living or those that require increased support.
“We are very pleased with the investment of this money and to partner with the Province of PEI to continue providing safe and affordable housing for vulnerable Islanders,” said CMHA’s executive director, Reid Burke. “Organizations across PEI are developing housing solutions to meet the needs of local residents; this program provides flexible support to get more community projects completed and available.”
The Community Housing Fund has three main categories: capacity building and research; project management and professional services; and construction and development. A selection committee made up of representatives from the Province, CMHA and members of the public will review the applications and make recommendations.
“While Islanders are working together to support the affordable housing needs of our neighbours, we recognize that some Islanders have additional barriers to housing and rely on more community support. We want to ensure that those supports are available and that all Islanders can feel safe and secure.”
- Minister of Social Development and Housing Ernie Hudson.
Applications for the Community Housing Fund will be accepted until November 15, 2019.
Media contact:
Samantha Hughes
Department of Finance
(902) 368-5501
shughes@gov.pe.ca
Lori Morris
Communications Coordinator
CMHA PEI
902-628-3650
communications@cmha.pe.ca
Backgrounder
The Community Housing Fund has three categories:
1. Capacity Building and Research
Capacity building refers to increasing the skills, knowledge, tools or equipment required to meet the needs of a community. Community capacity building means strengthening the skills and competencies of people and communities as well as local grassroots movements in order to achieve their goals. This category of funding can be used to build community capacity and/or do research to support a proposed development. Maximum funding under this category is $10,000 or 75% of project costs.
2. Project Management and Professional Services
Funding under this category can be used to hire external resources to assist with the planning process of a housing project. This could be in the areas of business, accounting, or another skillset that is not within the applicant organization. Maximum funding under this category is $50,000 or 75% of project costs.
3. Construction and Development
Funding under this category is for the construction of a housing facility including related services for engineering and architecture (as applicable.) An applicant must have other grants or financing in place to support the construction. Preference will be given to projects that are ready to break ground. Maximum funding under this category is 25% of project costs up to $1,000,000.