The Birth of Toit D’Abord Meets the Need for Affordable Housing

The Vaudreuil-Soulanges region recently saw the creation of Toit d'Abord, Habitations abordables Vaudreuil-Soulanges, a non-profit organization dedicated to meeting the pressing need for housing for families, young couples and seniors on modest incomes.

 

A crying need for affordable housing

“Modest income” refers to families, young couples and seniors who spend more than 30% of their income on housing. That's almost one tenant in three,” explains Geneviève Lachance, mayor of Saint-Lazare and president of the organization. With average rents ranging from $1,700 to $2,200 per month, and a very low vacancy rate, the region has unique housing challenges.

 

A collaborative and flexible approach

Toit d'Abord stands out for its mission to build, buy, convert and renovate buildings to provide affordable housing. “We have brought together experts in municipal regulations, real estate market, construction and project development,” says Olivier Van Neste, the organization's vice-president.

 

A community development project

The organization aspires to create inclusive and sustainable communities. “We are committed to creating communities where every individual can flourish,” says Manon Charest, general manager of the Office régional d’habitation de Vaudreuil-Soulanges.

 

Toit d'Abord is currently finalizing its first two projects, details of which will be unveiled shortly. “These projects will mark a significant step forward in our mission to offer affordable, quality housing,” concludes Mrs. Lachance.

The organization thanks the cities and municipalities of Vaudreuil-Soulanges, the MRC Vaudreuil-Soulanges and other partners for their financial support. A donations and sponsorship program has also been launched, inviting companies to contribute.

For more information, visit www.toitdabord.ca.

You can also read the official press release here (in French only).Communiqué de presse Toit d'Abord  —  21 mai 2024