Addressing racialized populations’ barriers to affordable housing
Abstract
People who experience houselessness in Edmonton are disproportionately from racialized populations. 1 in 5 racialized families in Canada will experience houselessness, compared to 1 in 20 White families. The need to improve affordable housing in Edmonton is imminent. This article describes strengths and weaknesses of the Final Report of the Alberta Affordable Housing Review Panel (2020) as it relates to racialized individuals in Edmonton.
Notes
Community organizations: Edmonton Social Planning Council
Future research / gaps identified: n/a
Key findings:
- An individualized approach that is centered on fairness, equity and inclusivity is needed to address the housing problem of newcomers in Edmonton.
- Local, BIPOC community organizations are essential to developing and leading affordable housing interventions.
- While promising, the report is overall lacking details about important factors that will affect how these findings and recommendations are put into practice.
Key populations: racialized individuals living in Edmonton, AB
Key recommendations:
- Increase capacity building of local BIPOC community organizations so they can own and administer affordable housing solutions.
- Develop rent subsidy programs for individuals who are not eligible for other programs, and need temporary support.
- Expand the report into a detailed strategy of how to implement affordable housing solutions in Edmonton, particularly in our current political climate.
Location: Edmonton, AB
Open access: Yes
Integration timeline: not defined
