Region of Waterloo exceeds affordable housing goal by building 2,707 new homes
The Region of Waterloo has now created over 2,700 new affordable homes, reaching its Building Better Futures goal more than a year ahead of schedule.
Regional Chair Karen Redman announced the accomplishment at a National Housing Day event on November 22, 2024. The Region currently sits at 2,707 new affordable homes either completed or in development, with many more still to come.
“It is an incredible accomplishment to exceed our ambitious affordable housing goals. More affordable homes means more families in our community have access to a safe and comfortable place to live,” said Chair Redman. “Our strategic plan prioritizes homes for all because we know the importance of having a safe place to call home.”
“We need to keep supporting each other and the work we do, so everyone has opportunities for affordable housing. I see hope in this community,” said Dr. Laura Pin, an associate professor in Political Science from Wilfrid Laurier University.
Building Better Futures is the Region’s plan, launched four years ago, to add 2,500 affordable homes by the end of 2025. It is an ambitious approach to address our community’s real housing crisis. Building Better Futures saw the Region act quickly and move from 50 to over 500 units created per year.
This year alone, several new buildings have given people the homes they need, including:
- KW Urban Native Wigwam Project welcomed the first residents into their Indigenous-led affordable housing build at 27 Cambridge Street in Cambridge. This building adds 30 affordable homes dedicated for First Nations, Inuit and Métis people, and offers a safe, culturally supportive environment.
- Indwell’s St. Mark’s Place in Kitchener opened its doors with 43 new homes for people who experienced homelessness or precarious housing.
What’s next? New affordable housing projects currently in development include the revitalization of Waterloo Region Housing sites at Mooregate Crescent in Kitchener, Wilson Avenue in Kitchener, and Kingscourt Drive in Waterloo. Together, these projects will add another 483 units.
An accomplishment like this doesn’t happen without help. Community partners, other municipalities, and provincial and federal funding all played key roles in reaching this goal.
Housing continues to be a priority for the Region of Waterloo. Regional Council invested $194.2 million in 2024 for housing and homelessness in the community, with more to come in the 2025 Plan and Budget. The Region’s strategic plan, Growing with Care, has “Homes for All” as a top priority. That means we’ll continue to invest in affordable homes, safe communities, and economic opportunity for everyone.
Achievement celebrated on National Housing Day
National Housing Day was a chance to recognize the work across Waterloo Region on our housing and homelessness challenges. This year’s event on November 22 was focused on the workers who directly support individuals and families in finding and maintaining housing. It was well-attended by staff and volunteers from various organizations in the community, as well as industry and community leaders.
The event’s theme was “Hearts Shaping Homes.” A “Celebration Square” marketplace space also showcased community organizations and provided a networking opportunity.
A discussion panel featured speakers talking about current issues and experiences. The panel was moderated by Erica Parrott from Housing Services at the Region and included panelists Nikki Britton from Special Outreach Services, Amina Suljovic from PATHS2HOME, Sarah Martin, an Unsheltered Support Worker, Frank McQuade from Sanguen Health Centre, and Maya Shields from Supportive Housing of Waterloo.
New this year, the Region accepted donations of new and gently-used hats, mitts, gloves, socks and scarves for the Chain of Warmth initiative. These winter clothes will be given to people at the Region of Waterloo’s Welcome Space in Cambridge. Donations can also be made to the Cambridge Welcome Space during the winter months to help those in need.
