What is community housing?

Community housing is an umbrella term that describes the wide array of unique non-market housing types in Canada. Community housing includes dwellings like social housing, public housing, co-operative housing, and non-profit housing. Typically, community housing can be identified by its relatively affordable below-market-rate rents.

Community housing does more than provide a roof, serving as a space for community, healing, and support. To explore some of Canada’s unique community housing providers, consider taking a look at the Non-Market Models Booklet produced by Community Housing Canada’s Dr. Rebecca Schiff and Ashley Wilkinson (Area of Inquiry IV: Understanding and Evaluating Models of Community Housing).

Our Mission:
A welcome message from Project Director Dr. Damian Collins

In Canada, housing is a fundamental human right. Yet, 12% of Canada’s households struggle to access affordable, suitable and adequate housing. The community housing sector is the backbone of Canada’s response to this housing need. Made up of social, affordable, and cooperative housing, it is home to 4.3% of all Canadian households. Much unmet need remains, and the sector faces significant challenges. We are addressing complex questions that need answers to ensure that the renewal and expansion of community housing is sustainable and resilient.

Each of our six research teams is composed of university researchers and community housing providers and associations. Together, we are co-creating knowledge and charting a course for a sustainable and resilient community housing system. I am proud to direct this partnership to work toward a strengthened housing landscape in Canada and ensure that every resident of Canada’s human right to housing is respected, protected and fulfilled. On behalf of all of us at Community Housing Canada, thank you for taking the time to visit our website and learn about our work.