The future of housing in Nova Scotia will be the focus of a public consultation at the Burridge Campus of the Nova Scotia Community College this Friday evening, Nov. 24 from 6:30-8:30 p.m.. The meeting is in room C181.
The province is developing a long term affordable housing strategy and, as part of that process, representatives of the Department of Community Services are encouraging input from families, people, municipal governments and community groups.
"The province will have a plan to address the housing needs of Nova Scotia families and face the challenges ahead," said Community Services Minister Denise Peterson-Rafuse in a press release. "We know that when people can choose the housing that's right for them, they are healthier, better educated, more self-reliant and our communities are more vibrant."
Nova Scotians can learn more and submit input online at http://housing.novascotia.ca.
The consultation will seek feedback on innovative, practical housing solutions being proposed, including:
-- Developing and supporting diverse, mixed communities with people from a wide range of incomes, backgrounds, housing and family types
-- Promoting partnerships with community groups, local government and businesses to deliver real and lasting housing solutions
-- Offering innovative options to ensure more Nova Scotians have access to affordable housing and the option to buy their home, if they choose
-- Enhancing programs that fund home repairs, renovations, adaptation and energy-efficiency
-- Improving the range of services available to homeless people, especially those with chronic illness, disability or mental illness
The input will help the province develop a strategy that offers people better affordable housing options and community supports.
Nova Scotia has some of the oldest public housing in Canada. Each year the province helps about 40,000 people find housing.
Yarmouth’s is one of seven public meetings across the province. The final affordable housing strategy is expected early next year.
