The Columbia Basin Trust (CBT announced last week its taking action on the affordable housing issue in the Kootenays by partnering with the BC Non-Profit Housing Association. (BCNPHA)

The partnership will enable communities like Cranbrook and Kimberley as well as private sector organizations evaluate the shortages of affordable housing and develop strategies to deal with it.

"CBT is launching this program in response to requests from Basin communities and organizations for access to housing expertise and resources, as well as information sharing around housing issues," said Neil Muth, CBT President and CEO.

"We know that affordable housing issues can be complex and challenging. This program will help communities get the information they need to make sound decisions in determining their next steps, whether that help is needed in developing new projects, or managing existing ones."

By linking with the CBT, BCNPHA Executive Director Karen Stone said the association could play a critical role in getting new affordable housing units developed.

"The partnership between CBT and BCNPHA allows communities to direct their own outcomes, while being supported by strategic resources. BCNPHA is excited by the opportunity to serve as a catalyst in the linking process and to work with the amazing communities within the Columbia Basin, towards ensuring innovative housing options."

Through the partnership, communities and organizations are able to evaluate options relating to existing housing projects, assess potential housing projects and develop plans, and understand how to work with a housing developer. The program will link communities and organizations with experienced affordable housing consultants and with other communities or organizations that have relevant experience. The cost of accessing these resources will be subsidized by CBT.

The program will not duplicate supports that are already available to communities or community organizations through other channels, and where appropriate, may complement existing supports. Because the program is new, CBT and BCNPHA will seek feedback from communities and community organizations on the program and will improve the program as needed.

BCNPHA is a provincial, member-based organization that represents the non-profit housing sector, and provides leadership and support to housing providers in order to facilitate a high standard of affordable housing throughout BC.

Columbia Basin Trust (CBT) was created in 1995 to promote social, economic and environmental well-being in the Canadian portion of the Columbia River Basin - the region most affected by the Columbia River Treaty.