Since September, the Canadian government has launched a series of initiatives to boost housing supply, accelerate repairs, and reduce costs—including Build Canada Homes, a cornerstone of its broader strategy to expand affordable housing construction nationwide.

“Solving Canada’s housing crisis requires immediate action,” said the Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure. “We need to build more, build better and build bolder. Through investments in affordable housing, our government is supporting those who need it most, here in Winnipeg and across the country.”

On that front, the federal and Manitoba governments jointly announced over $9 million in funding to repair 738 affordable rental homes across the province. The investment will extend the life of existing housing stock and improve living conditions for low- and moderate-income residents.

“This investment is another significant step in ensuring Manitobans have access to safe, stable, secure and affordable housing,” said the Honourable Bernadette Smith, Manitoba’s Minister of Housing, Addiction and Homelessness. “By extending the life of nearly 740 rental homes, we’re not only preserving critical housing stock, but also supporting healthier, more stable communities.”

The announcement was made by the Honourable Rebecca Chartrand, Minister of Northern and Arctic Affairs, on behalf of Minister Robertson, alongside Parliamentary Secretary Kevin Lamoureux and Minister Smith.

“Every Canadian has a right to a safe, affordable home to call their own,” said Chartrand. “These projects will provide more safe, affordable homes for residents in Manitoba. It’s also another step forward in building an economy that serves everyone.”

The momentum is expected to continue with Budget 2025, which will propose new measures to lower construction costs, attract private capital, and double the pace of homebuilding. The budget will also prioritize efficiency in government operations to free up resources for housing and affordability.