The Province of Nova Scotia is taking an important step to address systemic barriers and support community-based housing in Four African Nova Scotia Communities.
A new memorandum of understanding with the Preston Area Housing fund will launch discussions to address inequities and explore opportunities to support long term housing needs. Including work to transfer up to 50 provincially owned housing units in Cherry Brook-Lake Loon, North Preston, East Preston, and Westphal to the non-profit organization.
The government is also providing $3.5 Million to support the maintenance and sustainable operation of the units.
Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs Pat Dunn says they are committed to working with these communities to find community focused solutions adding that organizations like the Preston Area Housing Fund know the needs and strengths of their communities.
“Placing ownership of more housing directly in the hands of the community is one more step to address systemic barriers and historic wrongs that have affected African Nova Scotian communities for generations.” stated Dwanye Provo, Associate Deputy Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs. “This process will create more opportunities to build equity and address housing security in our communities.”
The Nova Scotia Affordable Housing Commission recommended collaboration with underrepresented communities to support removing barriers to home ownership and affordable housing opportunities.
Discussions will be conducted in other communities where similar opportunities may exist at a later date.
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