Dec. 06, 2023 | CREB

CREB^® REALTORS^® help to transform housing quality in their community

Accessible Housing Society, Calgary Drop-In and Rehab Centre Society, Unison at Kerby Centre, Rocky View Foundation, and McMan Youth, Family and Community Services have each been awarded $15,000 in grant funding for their projects.

The Transformation Grant provides funding for minor renovation projects to existing infrastructure to improve housing quality for the community’s most vulnerable. This year, the foundation secured $30,000 in extra funding, resulting in a total allocation of $75,000. In light of this event, the foundation was able to select two additional organizations. Thus, each non-profit organization has been awarded $15,000 in grant funding for their repair projects.

Since 1987, REALTORS^® have collectively invested more than $8.1 million into Calgary and area communities, and that number only continues to grow.

“These organizations reach a vast number of people in our communities that need additional support,” says Catherine Chow, Chair of CREB^® REALTOR^® Community Foundation.

“We are delighted to be a part of the effort so many organizations put forth to support housing and shelter in our city and look forward to seeing the impact these grants have for each organization.”

Accessible Housing Society

Accessible Housing Society is a non-profit organization and registered charity with a mandate to open doors for people with limited mobility to enhance dignity through accessible homes that are appropriate and affordable.

Grant funds will support the Residential Accessible Design (RAD) Renovations, which supports low-income Calgarians who need modifications and renovations to improve accessibility and safety in their homes.

"Accessible Housing Society is thankful for the generous support of CREB^® to our RAD (Residential Accessible Design) Renovations Program,” says Marni Halwas, Director of Fund Development. “This grant will help the RAD Renovations Team transform residential homes into safe and more accessible spaces for all by facilitating accessibility renovations/modifications from start to finish. Thank you CREB^® for supporting the community!"

Calgary Drop-In & 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 exterior safety upgrades to the Sundial apartment building. The main upgrade is the replacement of the front door for better security of the building residents.

"We are very appreciative of these funds from CREB^®, which will pay for the replacement of the aged main door at our Sundial mixed-market building. This new door will ensure that our building is safe and secure for our building residents, volunteers, and staff. Thank you to everyone at CREB^® for this generous gift, which will have an impact on our Sundial building residents and future residents in the years to come,” says Ahmed Farooq, Senior Manager of Property and Asset Management.

Unison at Kerby Centre

Unison at Kerby Centre is a not-for-profit organization that is committed to enhancing the ability of older adults to live healthy, productive lives with a focus on their mental, physical, social, and emotional well-being.

Grant funds will support the trauma-informed outdoor living space that will bring a renewed sense of empowerment to seniors seeking refuge from elder abuse.

“The seniors at our Elder Abuse Shelter deserve a welcoming, comfortable place to stay while we help them get back on their feet. This grant will ensure we have a space that's safe and enjoyable, and we're so beyond grateful for CREB^® and the opportunity to make this transformative change," says Larry Mathieson, President and CEO.

McMan Youth, Family and Community Services Association

McMan Youth, Family and Community Services is a not-for-profit social service agency that provides a range of programs to support children, youth and families with complex needs such as mental health issues, addiction, homelessness, poverty, and disabilities.

Grant funds will support the interior and exterior repairs and maintenance of Manhattan Place, a community-based group home for youth aged 13-17.

“Thank you CREB^® REALTOR^® Community Foundation for providing this grant to support much needed renovations at Manhattan Place,” says Soraya Saliba, Director for McMan Calgary and Area. “The funds will provide some repairs to the roof, flooring, and possible replacement of a couple doors; all of which contribute to a safer environment and more welcoming “home” for the youth we serve at McMan.”

Rocky View Foundation

Rocky View Foundation focuses on providing affordable housing options to independent seniors who live in the Rocky View, Alberta region; and they have provided affordable housing for over 63 years.

Grant funds will further support the renovations that are already underway for Abrio Place, which features 64 affordable units and includes all meals, housekeeping, and a full activity program for seniors currently living in unsafe environments.

“Rocky View Foundation would like to thank CREB^® for supporting Abrio Place! The generous grant provided by CREB^® has paved the way for important renovations ensuring the safety and security of the residents. We are grateful for CREB^®'s commitment to enhancing the well-being of our community's seniors. The support has made a significant impact on their lives, providing them with a safe environment to call home," says Chris Rowe, Chief Operating Officer.

"Through the affordable and subsidized rent model implemented at all Rocky View Foundations lodges, seniors can access accommodations they may have otherwise not been able to afford. Once again, we are grateful for CREB^®’s contribution and their belief in our mission of supporting housing for seniors in the Rocky View Region, specifically for the residents at Abrio Place in Airdrie.” 

Tagged: CREB® REALTOR® Community Foundation | Transformation Grant