Having a range of programs and strategies on housing, low-income housing, and homelessness allows the City to build an inclusive city where everyone can enjoy safety, stability, and the opportunity to build a life.
Indigenous experiences of homelessness and housing need are linked to historical trauma, oppression, racism and discrimination. Government practices and policies – including colonialism, residential schools and the Sixties scoop – have been linked to social exclusion, familial dysfunction, substance abuse, addictions, health issues and community violence, all of which contribute to homelessness and housing need.
The City’s Commitment
The City is committed to addressing the disproportionate representation of Indigenous people among those experiencing homelessness and housing needs in Edmonton by:
- Improving the emergency shelter system
- Making it easier to access housing
- The creation of culturally-appropriate, trauma-informed affordable and supportive housing
Are You in Need of Affordable Housing?
Affordable housing is crucial for well-being and stability, yet many struggle to find it. Exploring available resources and programs can help.
Housing Needs Assessment
The City’s 2023 Housing Needs Assessment identified a significant and growing housing need that disproportionately affects Indigenous households. About 5% of Edmonton's population is Indigenous, while between 55 and 65% of those experiencing homelessness identify as Indigenous. Citywide, 1 in 4 renter households pays more than it can afford on housing costs. Among Indigenous renter households, that figure rises to 1 in 3.
Affordable Housing Strategy
The City’s 2023-26 Affordable Housing Strategy provides guidance on how to create more Indigenous-led affordable and supportive housing. The strategy incorporates recommendations for how to prioritize and incentivize Indigenous-led affordable housing that were created through engagement with Indigenous housing providers, support service providers and advocacy groups focused on poverty and homelessness.
Affordable Housing Investment Program
The Affordable Housing Investment Program (AHIP) provides limited grant funding to eligible non-profit and private sector entities to encourage affordable housing development.
AHIP includes a grant stream specifically for Indigenous-led housing providers. It provides limited capital funding to Indigenous organizations to build new affordable housing units and/or rehabilitate existing affordable housing units.
The City provides up to 25% of total capital costs for affordable housing. Grants of up to 40% will be considered for proposals that include deep subsidies for priority groups, such as women and children fleeing domestic violence, exceed energy efficiency targets, and provide larger units.
Indigenous-led Housing Projects
Since 2020, the City has led and invested in the creation of supportive housing units.
Contact Us
Affordable Housing and Homelessness
Email affordablehousing@edmonton.ca
Phone 311 | Outside Edmonton: 780-442-5311