We envision residents having access to affordable housing that enhances wellbeing and reduces homelessness in the community.
Affordable housing is key to a strong economy and healthy region. The Capital Region Housing Corporation (CRHC) develops and manages affordable housing to meet the needs of people living within the capital region.
The Regional Housing First Program is an innovative partnership between the CRD, BC Housing and the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. Each partner is committing $40 million to create up to 2,000 affordable housing units, including up to 400 units renting at the provincial income assistance rate, with a total program value of $600 million.
The CRD has also provided over $11 million to help build 959 affordable rental housing units through the Regional Housing Trust Fund.
Anticipated initiatives, staffing, timing and service level requirements for the year ahead are outlined each year in the Affordable Housing Community Need Summary.
Key activities related to our commitment to affordable housing are outlined in and guided by the following plans and strategies:
- The Regional Housing Affordability Strategy outlines five key goals and strategies for the CRD and its potential partners to consider in developing affordable housing in the capital region.
- The Regional Growth Strategy is a vision for the future of the capital region, guiding decisions on regional issues such as transportation, population growth and settlement patterns.
- The CRD Board Priorities confirm the CRD’s vision, mission and mandate and set the long-term strategic direction for the CRD in order to respond to community needs.
- The CRD Corporate Plan outlines how the CRD will respond to community needs and deliver on the CRD Board Priorities, ongoing service commitments and approved plans over four years.
- The Southern Gulf Islands Housing Strategy explores the unique housing affordability challenges in the community, and makes recommendations for stakeholders working together toward solutions.
The Hospitals and Housing Committee provides advice and recommendations to the Board on policies and initiatives related to affordable housing.