Nine affordable housing projects have together received $11.5 million from the city. When completed, they will add 150 homes to Edmonton. All of the developments are meant to provide non-market housing options to vulnerable populations: Pakoshayimoohk Village in Blatchford received the largest grant announced Tuesday. Pakoshayimoohk means hope. The development will house low-income Indigenous people who have completed addictions treatment and want to remain sober. Those behind it say it will follow a continuum-of-care approach, with culturally grounded activities and a supportive environment. “Pakoshayimoohk Village combines stable housing, supportive community integration, natural green spaces, fitness opportunities and community gardening to promote healing, dignity, independence and hope,” said Valerie Quintal, secretary of housing and infrastructure for Otipemisiwak Métis Government, in a news release. “This type of transitional housing can serve as a bridge to long-term recovery, self-sufficiency and a higher quality of life.” “This funding will help us move forward with new barrier-free, accessible and affordable housing for those we serve,” added Linda Revell, CEO of Excel Society, which supports people with developmental disabilities. The funding was pulled from the city’s Affordable Housing Investment Program (AHIP), through which the city provides up to 25 per cent of a project’s capital costs. Applications for the next round of funding remain open until July 31. Mayor Andrew Knack credited the city’s 40-per cent increase in affordable housing since 2019 to programs like AHIP. “These 150 homes will provide stability and change lives, helping build a stronger, safer city,” he said.
