The federal government has allocated $2.2 million for renovations in 56 affordable rental units throughout Prince Edward Island, aiming to enhance support for the Indigenous community on the Island. This funding, sourced from the federal Affordable Housing Fund, offers low-interest and forgivable loans to organizations engaged in developing or upgrading units for affordable housing purposes.
The announcement of this initiative was made by Charlottetown MP Sean Casey in the Island’s capital city. Casey emphasized the significance of this funding in providing a fresh start for many individuals, particularly vulnerable groups like Indigenous women and children, towards a more equitable future.
Nanegkam Housing Corporation, under the management of the Native Council of P.E.I., has received the funding. Nanegkam Housing oversees 56 rental units, including duplexes, apartments, and single-family homes situated in various locations across the Island, such as Murray Harbour, Summerside, and Charlottetown.
David Rooney, the housing manager of Nanegkam Housing Corporation, highlighted the urgent need for upgrades in many of the units managed by the organization. He mentioned that several renovations are either underway or already completed, with positive feedback from tenants regarding the improvements.
Rooney expressed gratitude for the federal funding, stating that it enabled essential upgrades to enhance safety and efficiency in the units. The renovations include the installation of heat pumps, upgrading electrical panels, roof replacements, foundation repairs, and new boiler systems, transitioning from oil to propane boilers.
Regarding affordability, Casey informed reporters that 28 out of the 56 units offer rents below the median market rate in Charlottetown, ensuring monthly rents remain under $1,000 per unit. He acknowledged the challenging housing situation in Prince Edward Island, particularly for vulnerable groups like Indigenous women and children, due to the low vacancy rates in the province.
