A lack of affordable housing in Ontario

Posted on October 12, 2009 by Rose DesRochers

By Rose DesRochers

There is a severe lack of affordable housing in Ontario. A report released July 21, 2004 by ONPHA and CHFC-Ontario finds that despite a recent rise in rental vacancy rates in several of the 21 Ontario municipalities profiled, more than one-half million Ontarians are without affordable housing.

In Belleville the cost of housing is simply too high for most low income families. This results in poor quality housing, unsafe conditions or homelessness for many families. Families are being forced to move to isolated areas where housing is cheaper. They are a great distance from their doctors, schools, jobs, food banks and other agencies there to assist low income families.

Many families are without a vehicle, therefore must travel great distances by foot. I recently read in the newspaper about a family that had to make an hour and a half walk into the city in order to reach the local food bank. Many families are paying so much for rent that they can’t afford necessities such as food, utilities and other basics.

For those already homeless the greatest need is more affordable housing or a shelter. Without an address one may not obtain social assistance.

Low-income seniors are at risk. Many seniors are on a fixed pension and as the cost of living rises, seniors find themselves unable to pay for their drugs and rent, therefore must give up their independence and are forced into nursing homes.

Remarkable as it may seem, it appears the issue of unaffordable housing is overlooked by our Government. When I was a young child Belleville provided decent quality housing where you could bring up your family. Today as an adult, I see families are being denied that same opportunity because of the shortage of affordable housing.

The amount of affordable housing is so minimal that the impoverished are left with dilapidated housing managed by uncaring landlords. This lack of proper housing breaks up families and destroys the potential for many people’s pursuit of happiness.

As I walk around the streets of Belleville, I notice that the available land supply is being consumed by more expensive housing. The number of families in poverty is growing and the number of affordable houses is decreasing.

The solution to this ever growing problem cannot be solved without help from our Government. What are your thoughts?

Acknowledgement: ONPHA and CHFC-Ontario

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