Families Become Delegates for Regional Council Meeting
On Wednesday November 1st family members attended Durham Region’s budget meeting. They made it clear to council that affordable housing in an issue that must take priority. Members from the housing groups Imagining Home and Intentionally Built Community (IBC) presented innovative strategies which, if implemented, can help ease the housing affordability crunch.
Housing Task Force Recommendations Reviewed
Families took immediate action upon the release of The Regional Municipality of Durham Affordable and Seniors’ Housing Task Force Recommendations Report to address concerns in very concrete ways. The Task Force recommendations are included in the publication, At Home in Durham, Durham Region Housing Plan 2014-2024. Families are making it clear they are looking to partner with the region. Presenters stressed they are willing to be involved in the implementation and piloting of innovative solutions that potentially will impact the entire region in a manner that will truly foster vibrant and diverse neighbourhoods.
Presenters shared stories of their sons and daughters that reflected the universality of the issues surrounding the quest to attain affordable housing. Those in attendance, as supporters and other interested community members, witnessed councillors who want to be engaged in progressive conversations. Families suggested strategies which can lead to action and change in the traditional ways in which housing is addressed. Select councillors have been approached and accepted invitations by families to meet for further discussion. Dedicated families have pledged to use a combination of their personal resources, assets, and creativity along with government investment to establish and sustain genuine partnership bringing forth practical and relevant solutions in Durham Region.
Moving Forward
The Imagining Home group continues to meet on the second Wednesday evening of each month. The next meeting is at The Gathering Place (DAFRS, 850 King St. W. Unit 20) on Wednesday November 8th at 6:30pm. Please RSVP to Selena at sblake@dafrs.com or by calling 905-436-2500 ext. 2302.