EMBRUN, ON, Nov. 28, 2025 – Global trade shifts are creating significant challenges and uncertainty for Canadians, requiring a revised economic strategy.
is a plan to reshape Canada’s economy, making it less dependent on a single trading partner and more resilient to global economic shocks. The budget aims to facilitate $1 trillion in investments over the next five years, empowering Canada from within, ensuring its strength and independence.
A key component of this strategy is the Government of Canada’s Build Canada Homes initiative, designed to accelerate the construction of affordable homes and increase housing availability. This initiative also addresses homelessness by developing transitional and supportive housing in collaboration with various levels of government and Indigenous communities. It focuses on deeply affordable and community housing for low-income households and partners with private developers to create affordable homes for the middle class.
As part of the government’s comprehensive approach to tackling the housing crisis, efforts are underway across the housing spectrum to meet the needs of communities throughout Canada. The Affordable Housing Fund (AHF) offers funding through low-interest loans, forgivable loans, or contributions to partner organizations for the construction of new affordable housing and the renovation of existing affordable and community housing.
Today, the federal government announced an investment of over $17.2 million to support the construction of 35 secure homes in Embrun. This project, known as Second Stage Housing, will provide housing for women and children escaping abuse in Eastern Ontario. Operated and supported by Interlude, these units will offer a secure and supportive environment where residents can receive personalized assistance to rebuild their lives and regain independence, serving as a transition between emergency shelter and a stable future.
The announcement was made by Giovanna Mingarelli, Member of Parliament for Prescott–Russell–Cumberland, representing the Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada, alongside Mike Tarnowski, Mayor of Russel Township.
Recent events have highlighted the limitations of Canada’s economic independence. Budget 2025 directly addresses this challenge, aiming to give Canada control and build the future it desires, thereby building Canada Strong.
Quotes:
“Our Government is committed to providing housing for the people of Embrun and across the country, and supporting the Affordable Housing Fund is a key part of this effort. I am proud to be involved in this project and the positive impact it will have on people in this community,” said Giovanna Mingarelli, Member of Parliament for Prescott–Russell–Cumberland.
“I extend my gratitude to the Government of Canada and CMHC for their vital support. This grant marks another significant milestone in realizing this project. Together with a caring community, a dedicated organization, and strong partners, we are working to create a safer future for those in need,” stated Mike Tarnowski, Mayor of Russel Township.
“Every day, women and their children seek refuge from violent situations, hoping to rebuild their lives. However, the scarcity of affordable housing and support often forces them back into vulnerable or dangerous situations. Our Second Stage Housing project will provide a secure, accessible, and supportive transitional space where they can regain independence and stability,” explained Muriel Lalonde, Executive Director at Interlude.
Quick Facts:
- The Affordable Housing Fund (AHF) provides funding to partnered organizations through low-interest and/or forgivable loans or contributions for the creation of new affordable housing and the renovation and repair of existing affordable and community housing. It is a $16.1 billion program under the National Housing Strategy (NHS), prioritizing projects that support those most in need, including women and children fleeing family violence, seniors, Indigenous Peoples, people living with disabilities, those with mental health or addiction issues, Veterans, and young adults.
- As of June 2025, the Government of Canada has allocated $12.91 billion to support the creation of over 50,300 units and the repair of over 174,600 units through the Affordable Housing Fund.
- On September 19, 2025, the Government of Canada announced a $1.5 billion increase in loans for the Affordable Housing Fund’s New Construction Stream to support the creation of over 5,000 new units starting in 2025-26. Additionally, the Affordable Housing Fund’s Rapid Housing Sub-Stream will be accelerated by reallocating $385 million in funding from future years.
- Funding for Second Stage Housing includes:
- $17.2 million from the federal government, through the National Housing Strategy’s Affordable Housing Fund
- $29,100 from CMHC’ SEED Funding Program
Additional Information:
- Visit for the most-requested Government of Canada housing information.
- about Build Canada Homes.
- CMHC plays a vital role in promoting stability and sustainability within Canada’s housing finance system. Our mortgage insurance products facilitate access to homeownership and support the development and maintenance of rental housing. We also actively assist the Government of Canada in fulfilling its commitment to enhance housing affordability. Our research and data contribute to informing housing policy. By fostering collaboration among all levels of government, private and non-profit sectors, we help advance housing affordability, equity, and climate compatibility. Follow us on , , , and .
SOURCE Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC)
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