The Mount Hope neighborhood in Dartmouth South is welcoming 32 new affordable homes for women and children, offering a vital lifeline in the face of Canada’s housing crisis. This significant project is a collaborative effort, with funding and support from the federal government, the Province of Nova Scotia, Halifax Regional Municipality, and the YWCA Halifax.
The YWCA Halifax acquired 32 newly constructed two- and three-bedroom townhomes within Mount Hope Village, with construction completed in July 2024. One unit is designated for a superintendent, and residents began moving into the 31 supportive housing units in August. The YWCA Halifax is actively working to place families with children in the available units.
To address the diverse needs of residents, 10 units are specifically reserved for urban Indigenous families facing homelessness, in partnership with the Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre. Additionally, 12 units will be allocated to families currently residing in hotels and receiving support from Adsum for Women and Children. The remaining units will be filled based on existing YWCA Halifax housing programs.
Nova Scotia’s Department of Community Services is providing crucial funding for staffing, operations, and wraparound services tailored to meet the specific needs of residents. These services include support for unit maintenance, referrals to mental health and healthcare services, and employment skills training.
The financial contributions for this project are significant, reflecting the shared commitment to tackling the housing crisis:
*
Federal government:
$8,361,000 through the Affordable Housing Fund*
Province of Nova Scotia:
$2,900,000 through the Affordable Housing Development Program for support services and $510,000 through the Department of Community Services*
Halifax Regional Municipality:
$650,000*
YWCA Halifax:
$375,000 in cash equityThis collaborative project is a shining example of how government agencies and community organizations can come together to provide sustainable solutions to housing challenges. The new homes in Mount Hope Village will provide women and children with a safe and stable environment, allowing them to build better futures.
