The human right to choose where one lives has been significantly impeded by the rising cost of living, even more so when considering a low or unsteady income, writes Mandy Foster. CDC • UnsplashMandy Foster, who lives in Wolfville, N.S., is a second-year disability supports and services student at NSCC Kingstec.
More than six million Canadians have a disability, and less than 60 per cent of those have jobs. What does this mean in terms of affordable housing? Individuals living with disabilities or mental health concerns are at higher risk for unemployment. Without a steady source of income, these individuals are yet again at a higher risk of experiencing poverty and even homelessness.
Continuous improvement of adequate housing and living conditions has not been made. If anything, our housing crisis is getting worse, with the cost of houses and rental units skyrocketing in price compared to recent years. Our housing situation does not follow these current guidelines that are based in law.Edmonton Alberta is a great example of what we can do and where we could be. For example,. This means less rules around city and town zones, including where housing can be built.