Decent housing is one of the most basic needs we have. It’s a stable foundation on which families can build stronger futures for themselves and their children. This National Housing Day, we continue to recognize that there are far too many people who do have access to decent and affordable housing. One in eight Canadians are in core housing need, paying more than 30 percent of their income towards housing costs in overcrowded conditions that are in disrepair.
In this video, Habitat homeowners share a few of the critical housing needs they faced before buying their Habitat homes.

Stable homes help improve children’s health and development. We know that, for Habitat homeowners, their children have better health and educational outcomes including an increased likelihood to pursue post-secondary education and that those families are less likely to have to use a food bank. Habitat homeowners Laura and Shane were spending up to $600 a month on hydro before they bought their Habitat home. Paying an affordable mortgage means they have more money for fresh, nutritious food and have started saving for their children’s future education.

“I think of hunger and unstable housing as being the twin demons for low-income kids. Too often families are having to choose between rent and eating.” - Dr. Megan T. Sandel, an associate professor of pediatrics at the Boston University Schools of Medicine and Public Health, in an interview with Habitat for Humanity International

Habitat homeowners who participated in a 2013 survey with Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation shared that buying a Habitat home meant their children also had more space to study in a quieter, less stressful environment, leading to higher grades, better attendance and increased confidence.

What can you do to make a difference? Take the time to learn more about how housing issues are affecting your community. Click here to find your local Habitat and connect with them today to donate or volunteer.