Nov. 26, 2024 | CREB

Calgary REALTORS^® fund improvements to housing quality in their community

Since 1987, REALTORS^® have collectively invested more than $8.1 million into Calgary and area communities, and that number continues to grow. In September, the CREB^® REALTOR^® Community Foundation also awarded $115,500 to local non-profits as part of its Community Grant program, which funds major repairs and renovations to existing housing or shelter supply, with the goal of keeping people housed in their communities.

"As we approach the colder months, ensuring that vulnerable communities have access to safe, warm, and functional shelter is more crucial than ever," says Catherine Chow, Chair of the CREB^® REALTOR^® Community Foundation. "These Transformation Grants will significantly enhance housing quality for each organization, empowering them to better serve and support the Calgary community for years to come."

Radiance Family Society

Radiance Family Society is a non-profit organization that has supported women and children affected by domestic violence for more than four decades.

Grant funds will support improvements to one of its shelters that support women with and without children who are fleeing domestic violence. The funds will directly support updating the flooring in the residential units to improve living conditions and offer pet-friendly suites.

“We are so grateful to receive this contribution from CREB^® to renovate flooring in our shelter so we can offer pet friendly suites. New flooring is crucial in our ability to welcome pets and provide a responsive system of care that reduces barriers for those with pets leaving domestic violence. We know that people experiencing violence will stay in their home out of fear for the safety of their pet, or because they do not want to be separated from their pet.  Thank you to CREB^® for helping us provide safe homes not only for women and their children, but also for their furry family members,” said Susan Herman, Executive Director of Radiance Family Society.

Calgary Drop-In and Rehab Centre Society

Calgary Drop-In and Rehab Centre Society connects vulnerable adults experiencing or at risk of homelessness with emergency shelter, housing and health programs. They provide low-barrier access to care, when and where it is needed, with a goal to support each person’s transition to independent living.

Grant funds will support a kitchen upgrade at the Drop-In Centre Bridgeland Manor. The kitchen is a vital resource that helps residents develop cooking skills both individually and through group cooking events.

"CREB^®'s generous funding will support the kitchen upgrade and redesign at Bridgeland Manor, our mixed-market residential housing building. This renovation will create a more functional and accessible space that fosters social connection among our senior residents who are transitioning from homelessness to stable housing. The upgraded kitchen will serve as a cornerstone for resident wellbeing and community integration. We're grateful to CREB^® for this impactful gift that will benefit Bridgeland Manor residents for years to come,” said Kevin Webb, Director of Emergency Shelter and Housing at the Calgary Drop-In Centre.

Onward Homes Society

Onward Homes Society provides homes to low-income Calgarians. They support a diverse mix of Calgarians including those with mental health and mobility challenges, seniors and individuals leaving homelessness and domestic violence.

Grant funds will support upgrades to the Glasswaters House, which is home to 10 new and expectant mothers at risk of homelessness. The home was originally built in the 1950s, underwent renovations in the 1980s, and is now in need of plumbing upgrades.

Tagged: CREB® REALTOR® Community Foundation | Transformation Grant