On Nov. 22, 1998, the Big Cities Mayors’ Caucus of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) declared homelessness a national disaster. In 2000, Nov. 22 was recognized as National Housing Strategy Day in Canada. Across the nation, events that take place on this day raise awareness of the need to address the housing and homelessness crisis in Canada. Aligned with the National Housing Strategy Day in Canada, Edmonton Housing Month is an annual campaign that aims to raise awareness for safe, affordable housing, and sustainable strategies to end homelessness in our city.

Historically, in Edmonton, Civida, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, and Homeward Trust Edmonton worked together to share content over the course of the month and host a luncheon with a keynote speaker. The impacts of a global pandemic resulted in a shift in that approach, and a new group of sector partners formed to plan and host Edmonton Housing Month activities. See who’s involved >>

Each year, these sector partners participate by hosting virtual webinars or other events. Topics include Housing Programs & Supports, Supportive and Affordable Housing, Mental Health, Indigenous and Lived Experience Perspectives, and much more.

What is National Housing Day?

Since 2000, Canada has recognized November 22 as National Housing Day — a day dedicated to raising awareness about housing and homelessness. Every year, communities across Canada observe the day by hosting events and activities that are locally designed to focus on the needs of individual communities. As National Housing Day approaches, it’s important to recognize existing challenges and rethink affordable housing.