Initiative intended to spur construction of affordable housing in Quebec
The Canadian and Quebec governments have committed $13 million to propel housing innovation in Sherbrooke.
The funding is intended to bolster the creation of the Havre des Pins co-operative, an initiative co-financed by the Fondation pour le développement de l'habitation coopérative au Québec (Fonds Coop Accès Proprio).
The announcement came from the project site of Havre des Pins, where Élisabeth Brière, Member of Parliament for Sherbrooke, spoke on behalf of Sean Fraser, minister of housing, infrastructure and communities. She was joined by Geneviève Hébert, a member of the national assembly for Saint-François and assistant government whip.
Overview of the Havre des Pins Project
Havre des Pins encompasses a complex of five buildings. The initial phase involved constructing two 24-unit buildings under a pilot homeowner co-operative model, completed in 2020 and 2022, respectively.
Phase II of this co-operative venture, totalling a development cost of $29.7 million, is financed through PRIMAccès S.E.C. This $90-million fund, sourced equally from the Government of Quebec and Fondaction, aims to construct 1,000 affordable condo units for first-time buyers across Quebec over the next five years. A total of $7 million of this fund is allocated specifically to the Havre des Pins project, supporting the construction of two additional 24-unit buildings and one 32-unit building, summing up to 80 new homes.
The Canadian government is also contributing $6 million through low-interest repayable loans from the Affordable Housing Innovation Fund to the Fonds Coop Accès Proprio.
Comments from Officials
Sean Fraser highlighted the project’s role in ensuring safe, affordable homes for everyone. He emphasized the collaboration between governments and Fondaction as a demonstration of their commitment to inclusive housing solutions.
France-Élaine Duranceau, Quebec's minister responsible for housing, noted the innovative approach of the Havre des Pins co-operative model and its importance in meeting diverse housing needs in Quebec.
Élisabeth Brière praised the local innovation in housing models, particularly in Sherbrooke, stating that these efforts are setting a precedent for other communities.
Geneviève Hébert spoke about the tailored housing solutions the second phase of the Havre des Pins project will provide, catering to families, singles, and seniors alike.
