By Tyler Sutherland
Habitat for Humanity Winnipeg is raising awareness today for the need for safe, decent, affordable housing in our own community. The United Nations declared the first Monday of every October to be “World Habitat Day” — a day to call worldwide attention to the dire need for affordable housing for all.
Habitat says there are currently 125,000 Manitobans living in poverty and in 2006, 11.3% of Manitoba families were in need of core housing — about 46,900 households.
This year, 15 homes are being built for purchase by low-income working families.
“Today, marking World Habitat Day, Habitat is very pleased to announce that the City of Winnipeg is showing their commitment to affordable housing by making a significant donation of land for future Habitat homes” said Sandy Hopkins, HFHW CEO. “Earlier in the spring, City Council approved the donation of one acre of land on Ross Avenue for our use. We are having discussions with the City of Winnipeg about acquiring the parking lot adjacent to the property allowing us to build a total of 14 to 20 homes. Some of these homes may be built as early as next year.”
Deputy Mayor Justin Swandel made the donation announcement on behalf of the city earlier this morning at a news conference.
