Co-op housing supports thriving communities

Tim Ross says the province's decision to end critical funding assistance threatens many vulnerable residents.

For more than 30 years, co-operative housing in Saskatchewan has been more than just a place for people to live. Co-ops have been communities where residents of all ages and from all walks of life — including seniors, small business owners and families — can come together and have a sustainable place to call home.

As demand continues to grow for affordable housing solutions, co-ops have proven to be a safe, secure and affordable rental choice. Co-ops allow residents to thrive, and be a part of strong and diverse communities where neighbours know your name and can be counted on to help out in times of need.

Until recently, the Government of Saskatchewan administered and provided a rent-geared-to income (RGI) assistance for individuals in co-ops who were in need of and qualified for assistance, helping to offset their housing costs. This type of rental assistance is used across the country, and we know it to be a tried and tested method to help bridge the gap between the modest rent co-ops charge, and the ability of lower income residents to cover their costs.

Unfortunately, the provincial government decided to end this critical assistance, leaving many community members without adequate support to continue living in their homes. In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic that has disrupted many sectors of the Saskatchewan economy, now is not the time for politicians to turn their backs on co-op communities or their most vulnerable members.

Saskatchewan does have access to cost-shared funds, and can afford to maintain and expand community housing. The province signed a bilateral housing agreement in 2019, committing $225 million from the federal government, and $225 million from the province to protect and expand affordable and co-op housing over the next 10 years. However, the government set such a high bar for renters to access the Saskatchewan Housing Benefit, making it only available to households that spend more than 50 per cent of their income on rent. This threshold puts this assistance out of reach for those that really need it. There is already plenty of research to prove that spending 30 per cent of your income on rent puts you in a vulnerable housing position.

Saskatchewan residents deserve housing options that are safe, affordable and attainable, and this includes co-op communities. Now, more than ever, politicians must step up to the plate and support community driven solutions.

Supporting co-op communities means contributing to a greater quality of life for residents, and providing more options for families and seniors who need a safe and affordable home. The next provincial government needs to make rental assistance available for low-income families living in co-operative housing.

Co-operatives have strong roots in the Prairies. Now more than ever politicians need to support co-operatives that prioritize the well-being of the most vulnerable people in the province so our communities can thrive.

There is already plenty of research to prove that spending

30% of your income on rent puts you in a vulnerable housing position.