Apr 11 2010
Housing Expertise Available to Basin Communities
Columbia Basin Trust (CBT) and the BC Non-Profit Housing Association (BCNPHA) are partnering to support Basin communities and organizations in taking action on local affordable housing concerns through CBT’s new Affordable Housing Resources Program.
Through the partnership, communities and organizations are able to evaluate options relating to existing housing projects, assess potential housing projects and develop plans, and understand how to work with a housing developer. The program will link communities and organizations with experienced affordable housing consultants and with other communities or organizations that have relevant experience. The cost of accessing these resources will be subsidized by CBT.
“CBT is launching this program in response to requests from Basin communities and organizations for access to housing expertise and resources, as well as information sharing around housing issues,” said Neil Muth, CBT President and CEO. “We know that affordable housing issues can be complex and challenging. This program will help communities get the information they need to make sound decisions in determining their next steps, whether that help is needed in developing new projects, or managing existing ones.”
Karen Stone, Executive Director, BCNPHA, added: “The partnership between CBT and BCNPHA allows communities to direct their own outcomes, while being supported by strategic resources. BCNPHA is excited by the opportunity to serve as a catalyst in the linking process and to work with the amazing communities within the Columbia Basin, towards ensuring innovative housing options.”
This program will not duplicate supports that are already available to communities or community organizations through other channels, and where appropriate, may complement existing supports. Given that the program is new, CBT and BCNPHA will seek feedback from communities and community organizations on the program and will improve the program as needed.
To learn more about the program or to access affordable housing experts, call 1.800.505.8998 or email housinghelp@cbt.org. Learn more about CBT’s other social initiatives and the Social Strategic Plan at www.cbt.org/social.
BCNPHA is a provincial, member-based organization that represents the non-profit housing sector, and provides leadership and support to housing providers in order to facilitate a high standard of affordable housing throughout BC. Learn more about the BCNPHA at www.bcnpha.ca.
CBT delivers economic, social, and environmental benefits to the residents of the Columbia Basin. To learn more about CBT programs and initiatives, visit www.cbt.org or call 1-800-505-8998.
For more information contact:
Delphi Hoodicoff
Communications
Columbia Basin Trust
1.800.505.8998
dhoodicoff@cbt.org