Shovels hit dirt Monday as the Calgary Dream Centre officially launched construction on Erlton House, a transformative affordable housing development that will provide safe, stable homes for nearly 90 women and children struggling with homelessness and addiction.
The $17.6-million project, located at 24th Avenue S.W. in the Erlton neighbourhood just south of downtown Calgary, represents a major milestone for the non-profit organization dedicated to helping vulnerable individuals rebuild their lives.
"This is a long time coming," Calgary Dream Centre CEO Craig Hill said at Monday's groundbreaking ceremony. The organization acquired the land approximately three years ago and spent years securing funding and navigating regulatory approvals to make the vision a reality.
Multi-Government Support Shows Commitment to Housing Crisis
Erlton House stands as a testament to collaborative action on Alberta's affordable housing crisis. The project received critical financial backing from all three orders of government: the City of Calgary contributed $3 million and sold the land at book value, while both the provincial and federal governments each provided approximately $4.8 million in capital funding.
Private sector partners also stepped up. Trico Homes and the Calgary Real Estate Board's REALTOR Community Foundation legacy grant delivered $1 million in additional support, demonstrating community-wide commitment to addressing homelessness.
The development will feature below-market condominium units designed specifically to meet the needs of women and children facing housing instability. Residents are expected to move in by fall 2027.
For Calgarians interested in understanding more about housing challenges and solutions in the community, Calgary Forums offers local residents a space to discuss housing issues and neighbourhood developments affecting the city.
This article is based on reporting from the Calgary Herald.