Habitat for Humanity Southern Alberta announced that it will be returning to Airdrie for the first time since 2016 to build 11 affordable homes. The homes will be built in the community of Bayview and will offer local families the opportunity to build strength, stability and independence through affordable homeownership.
Habitat will break ground on the development this fall and expects it to be complete in late 2025. Applications to buy these homes through Habitat’s no down payment, interest-free mortgage will open in early July. Future homeowners will volunteer 500 hours, which includes time spent participating in the construction of their homes alongside community volunteers and tradespeople.
“The need for affordable homeownership is rising in many communities across Southern Alberta including Airdrie. As a non-profit homebuilder and developer, Habitat for Humanity brings the community together to build starter homes and brighter futures for hard working families in Southern Alberta,” said Gerrad Oishi, President and CEO of Habitat for Humanity Southern Alberta.
According to the 2024 City of Airdrie Housing Needs Assessment, more than 2,000 homes are needed to help achieve housing affordability. Over the past six months, Habitat for Humanity has participated in the City’s Housing Solutions Working Group to develop strategies to meet this need.
“As part of the City’s 2024 – 2030 Affordable Housing Principled Action Plan, we are creating an environment where developers and non-profit organizations can build the types of housing to meet the needs of our local labour force and broader community,” said Kevin Weinberger, City of Airdrie Director of Community Safety and Social Services. “Our priority is to offer a full range of housing options that allow residents to access safe and secure housing achievable on their income.”
Since 2012, Habitat for Humanity has built eight homes in Airdrie, impacting the lives of eight families and 19 children. Mark, Maria and their daughter Audrey are one of those families. They bought their Habitat home in Ravenswood in 2016. Audrey is now 13 years old and is so grateful for the stable place she has to call home.
“My Habitat home is a haven, bringing me daily doses of happiness. It’s where my family and I create cherished memories together,” she said.
As the need for affordable homeownership rises, Habitat for Humanity is rising to meet the need. Last year, Habitat delivered more than $10 million in affordable housing, with plans for an additional $24 million underway, including these homes in Airdrie.
Once complete, this development in Bayview will add $4.5 million of affordable homes to the supply in Airdrie. Families will buy these homes through Habitat’s affordable mortgage, with no down payment and no interest, giving them the opportunity to build long-term stability and independence.
Every Habitat home is the result of tremendous community support. There will be opportunities to donate and volunteer for the duration of the build. To learn more visit www.habitatsouthernab.ca.
