Calgary Housing Foundation Launches Winter Campaign to Aid Vulnerable Residents

The Calgary Affordable Housing Foundation (CAHF) has initiated a winter fundraising campaign aimed at securing financial support for vulnerable residents in Calgary. This initiative coincides with National Housing Day and was officially launched on November 18, 2023. Individuals wishing to contribute can do so by visiting the CAHF’s website at thecahf.com.

“Every day in Calgary, there are Calgarians facing winter without a warm and safe place to call home,” stated Mike Meldrum, CEO of CAHF. He emphasized the importance of community involvement in increasing the availability of non-market affordable homes. The campaign seeks to address a pressing issue as over 2,500 families, adults, and youths are currently on the waiting list for affordable housing, with an average wait time exceeding 220 days, according to the Calgary Homeless Foundation.

Addressing the Growing Demand for Affordable Housing

Despite the city adding approximately 300 non-market affordable units annually, the actual demand stands at around 2,500 to 3,000 units per year. This discrepancy highlights the urgent need for action, particularly for vulnerable groups such as seniors. “Seniors make up just 13 percent of Calgary’s population, yet they represent 23 percent of the 85,000 households in housing need,” noted Kyle Fawcett, CEO of Silvera for Seniors. His remarks underscore the difficult choices faced by many seniors regarding their living conditions.

The City of Calgary estimates that approximately one in five residents spend more than 30 percent of their household income on housing costs, which is the threshold for what is considered affordable. This statistic reveals a significant challenge for many Calgarians striving for financial stability.

Community Collaboration for a Sustainable Solution

“A safe and stable home is the foundation for well-being, and every Calgarian deserves one,” said Martina Jileckova, CEO of Onward. She highlighted the critical role of partnerships and community support in addressing the affordable housing crisis. Through collaboration with CAHF and the generosity of donors, Onward aims to expedite their efforts in creating additional affordable housing options.

As the winter months approach, the CAHF campaign serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to support fellow Calgarians in need. The organization encourages donations to help bridge the affordable housing gap and promote a community where everyone has access to safe and dignified living conditions.