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 have worked together to share content over the course of the month and host a luncheon with a keynote speaker. Over the last few years, the impacts of a global pandemic resulted in a shift in that approach, and a new group of partners has formed to plan and host Edmonton Housing Month activities. See who’s involved >>

Each year, sector partners participate by hosting virtual webinars or information-sharing sessions. Topics include Housing Program & 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.

This year, Homeward Trust Edmonton hosted the 2024 National Housing Day Luncheon on Friday, November 22nd, from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM at the Coast Edmonton Plaza Hotel. We welcomed Cheryll Case, the Founder and Executive Director of CP Planning, as our keynote speaker for this special event. Her keynote address emphasized the importance of affordable housing in promoting economic resilience and provided insights into effective planning for sustainable and inclusive growth.