The federal government announced that over 10,000 new affordable housing units will be created across the country through the Rapid Housing Initiative (RHI), exceeding the initial goal of 7,500 new units. The new homes are intended for vulnerable Canadians and those at risk of homelessness. A third of the new units will support women and children, and another third will assist Indigenous Peoples.

Since launching, the Government of Canada’s $2.5 billion RHI has been helping vulnerable individuals and families find safe and affordable housing while simultaneously helping to grow the middle class by creating thousands of jobs in the housing and construction sector.

“We know that finding a safe and affordable place to live is a challenge for many Canadians across the country,” said Trudeau. “Through the Rapid Housing Initiative, we are building more housing units, increasing affordable housing, and working to end chronic homelessness. As we build a better future for everyone, we will continue working to improve access to housing, particularly for our most vulnerable, while putting home ownership back in reach for all Canadians.”

The government will continue working with provincial, territorial, and municipal governments, Indigenous governing bodies, as well as stakeholders and organizations to quickly create more homes for people in need of housing.

The RHI is delivered by CMHC under the National Housing Strategy (NHS), Canada’s 10-year plan to invest over $72 billion in affordable housing development. It provides capital contributions (upon signing a funding agreement with CMHC) under two streams— Cities Stream and Projects Stream — to expedite the delivery of affordable housing units.