The Northumberland Affordable Housing Committee (NAHC) is encouraging the citizens of Northumberland to be well informed when electing their Federal Member of Parliament and invite you to attend the All Candidates Meeting it is hosting on Thursday September 26th, 8:30 am at the Salvation Army Church, 59 Ballantine St. Cobourg.
The NAHC is stressing the importance of discussing critical housing affordability issues with candidates.
“Many individuals and families in our communities are struggling with the cost of housing whether renting or owning.” Kristina Nairn from the NAHC states. “Average household incomes in Northumberland are lower than the Ontario average, and housing costs continue to rise. A 2-bedroom apartment if it can be found is, on average, over $1300.00 per month and waitlists for subsidized housing are now up to 9 years.”
Nairn continues: “The low availability of rental units and high rental costs are putting pressure on those already faced with few options, forcing some into homelessness and others to leave the community to find better options.”
NAHC member Pam MacDougall adds, “The high costs of housing also affect a family’s ability to afford food. In a country as prosperous as Canada, eradicating food insecurity is an ethical obligation. Ensuring access to affordable, high quality, culturally appropriate, nutritious food, is important and requires more than attention to food prices.” MacDougall reminds people to Eat. Think. Vote.
Each level of government plays an important role in dealing with housing and food security issues. The Federal Government’s National Housing Strategy offers several programs and initiatives to make rental and homeownership more affordable. Our communities need to hear candidates views on the strategy and how they will ensure Northumberland has what it needs to offer some relief to the current housing crisis.
Individuals and families are encouraged to come out to the All Candidates Meeting to discuss these critical issues.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
