Mr. Chair, members of the committee, good afternoon, and thank you for the opportunity to appear before you today.
My name is Allison Ferris, and I am the vice-president of the Co-operative Housing Federation of Canada. I am joined by Tim Ross, our staff person responsible for policy and government relations.
We're here today to offer input on measures and actions that the federal government can undertake through budget 2017 to contribute to economic growth, prosperity, and inclusion, especially as that relates to Canada's growing housing challenges.
Canada's history reflects the achievement of a population that's built a powerful economy and a generous society. When Canadians work together in a manner that harmonizes economic, social, and environmental interests, Canadians thrive. This blend of co-operation and entrepreneurship is the co-operative way. When economic, social, and environmental interests are not harmonized, as currently seen in Canada's housing system, Canadians struggle.
Canada's affordable housing crisis is now so acute that it not only affects low-income households, it also affects Canada's middle class. Canada's prosperity depends on a housing system that meets the needs of all Canadians. Millions of Canadians are looking for answers, and budget 2017 can make the difference. Canadians desire communities that support their economic aspirations, advance their social well-being, and promote environmental sustainability. Building a housing system that better supports co-operative and entrepreneurial values can help make this happen.
Housing co-operatives are making it happen. The Co-operative Housing Federation of Canada is our strong national voice for housing co-operatives. Across Canada there are over 2,300 housing co-operatives with a portfolio of approximately 96,750 units. Over a quarter of a million Canadians live in a housing co-operative. At its most basic level, a co-operative is an autonomous association of persons working together to meet their own economic, social, and cultural aspirations through a jointly owned and democratically controlled enterprise.
In the case of housing co-operatives, people from all walks of life are empowered to build and own housing that meets their needs in a manner that is inclusive, affordable, and sustainable. Furthermore, through our long-standing partnership with government, housing co-operatives have been able to go the extra mile by dedicating a significant portion of units to meeting the housing aspirations of low-income households.
To build on this platform of affordability, inclusion, and sustainability, a revitalized partnership is required with the federal government.
Now I'd like to turn it over to my colleague, Tim Ross, to offer details.