GROUNDS UPDATE
Submitted by Debbie Willis on behalf of the Grounds Committee
It's hot and our trees need water to stay healthy! If you live near any of our co-op's trees, please give them a heavy soak once a week. We are all responsible for the health of our trees at the co-op.
Bellflower be gone! If you notice any creeping bellflower (pretty purple flowers but very invasive) please pull them up by the roots. Please note: they must be disposed of in the garbage, not the compost.
Grounds is organizing a fall Pizza Night worker bee! Date and time TBA but please keep an eye out for details.
FEDERAL RENTAL ASSISTANCE EXTENDED!
Submitted by Mahlah Hansen from the Co-Operative Housing Federation of Canada website
Today, we are pleased to share some important news: after months of advocacy by housing co-op members across the country, the federal government has committed to extending the Federal Community Housing Initiative for five years beyond its current end date of March 2028.
This is a significant achievement, and it belongs to you.
Through our You Hold the Key campaign, thousands of co-op members took action. You wrote to your Members of Parliament, contacted the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure, passed resolutions, shared your stories, and spoke up for the importance of rental assistance in housing co-ops. Together, we made the case that rental assistance is essential to keeping co-op housing affordable and accessible.
Because of that collective effort, the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure has confirmed that FCHI will continue for an additional five years, beginning in 2028-29. You can read our news release outlining this important commitment.
For the thousands of households who rely on rental assistance, this commitment provides greater certainty and stability. It also helps co-ops continue operating as strong, mixed-income communities where people of different income levels can live, contribute, and thrive together.
This announcement is an important step forward.
At the same time, our members have been clear: the need for rental assistance does not end after five years. Housing co-ops are long-term community assets. Many are planning major repairs, renewals, and refinancing projects to ensure they continue providing quality housing for generations to come. Long-term planning requires long-term certainty.
That is why CHF Canada will continue advocating for:
An extension of FCHI to at least 10 years;
Renewal of the Canada Community Housing Initiative (CCHI) so that rental assistance remains available where provinces are responsible for delivery;
and The recognition of rental assistance as a permanent pillar of federal housing policy.
Today's announcement demonstrates something powerful: when housing co-op members speak with a united voice, governments listen. On behalf of CHF Canada, thank you for your commitment, your advocacy, and your belief in the co operative housing movement. You helped secure this important win, and together we will continue building momentum for the work ahead.
NEW MEMBER INTRODUCTION
Submitted by members of unit 775
We are beyond excited to join the co-op and introduce our little crew! Anton grew up in northwest Calgary and has spent most of his life learning and teaching yoga. Sacha grew up in Vancouver and works in social work. She’s also a stop-motion animator and puppet maker. Bastian is heading into Grade 6 and loves soccer, Geometry Dash, and anything spicy—especially Takis. Challenge him to a spicy food showdown at your own risk!
We also have Mochi, our neurotic but very cuddly French Bulldog. Our parents all live in tropical places and love to taunt us with beach photos. You’ll also likely see our two-year old niece Kiara, who visits often and will happily make full use of the playground. We look forward to getting to know everyone!