NSNPHA – Nova Scotia Non-Profit Housing Association
NSNPHA Nova Scotia Non-Profit Housing Association
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  • AGM Recap & Annual Report

    Photographed left to right: NSNPHA Board Chair, Nick Russell — Rooted- Community Development Partners; NSNPHA Executive Director, Trish McCourt; Past Board Chair, Aiden Kivisto — YMCA of Cumberland; Past Board Treasurer, Leslay Harris — Tawaak Housing Association; Board Secretary, Mitchell Archibald — Student Housing Nova Scotia.

    NSNPHA AGM & Education Sessions Recap

    On June 18, we hosted our first in-person Annual General Meeting and Education Sessions, bringing members, partners, and sector leaders together for a full day of learning and connection. 

    Event Highlights:

    • Our Government Funding Panel featured updates from CMHC, CHTC, and the Government of Nova Scotia on available funding and future opportunities. 
    • The Innovative Financing session explored new financing frameworks to support non-profit housing growth. 
    • Dr Katie MacDonald presented preliminary findings and next steps on her research to support a thriving housing sector. 
    • The NSNPHA AGM included the release of the 2024/25 Annual Report and a first look at our new Strategic Framework, which highlights our updated vision, mission and values, and is focused on sector leadership, member support, and association growth.  
    • Minister Colton LeBlanc shared remarks reinforcing government’s commitment to growth in the sector.  
    • Sarah Button presented strategies for growth and collaboration in non-profit housing. 
    • The Town Planner Panel discussed strategies on how to engage and collaborate effectively with local planning departments.  
    • Myra Pennington highlighted how Affordable360 can support organizations during the early stages of housing development. 

    We asked participants what they liked most about the event, here is what they said: 

    “A chance to network and learn more as this is our first experience with non-profit housing.” “Networking” 
    “All the information provided is very helpful.” “The software 360 and the panel regarding financing. Powerful to overcome pre-development.” “The funding Q&A and the scaling up presentations/discussions were excellent.” 

    Below you can find the full Annual Report for review!

    Annual Report 2425 (8.5 x 11 in)Download

    nsnonprofithousing

    July 17, 2025
    Uncategorized
    affordablehousing, AGM, community housing, Government funding, housing networks, Housing providers, innovative financing, Miniter Colton Leblanc, non-profit housing, nova scotia, Town Planners
  • INTERNATIONAL SOCIALHOUSING FESTIVAL (ISHF) 2025

    Overview of the Festival

    The 5th International Social Housing Festival (ISHF) in Dublin, Ireland, brought together over 2200 delegates from up to 40 countries across five continents. The festival’s central theme for Dublin 2025 was “storytelling,” a tradition strong in Dublin and Ireland, explored across 300 sessions and events. The event aimed to demonstrate that the need for social and affordable housing is a global phenomenon.

    Key sessions attended

    Affordable Housing in Parma: Living Together, Growing Together / Municipal Models for Affordable Housing – Parma, Italy

    This session highlighted Parma’s inclusive housing model, where residents live in community-focused social housing developments.

    Creating Housing on Ireland’s Offshore Islands and Colorado’s Rural

    These sessions explored shared challenges between Ireland’s island housing issues and rural Colorado communities, including land use restrictions, labor shortages, and funding policy misalignment.

    Land Use Reform & Prop 123 (Colorado) / U.S. Case Study – Land Use Reform in Colorado

    Proposition 123, passed in 2022, provides permanent funding for affordable housing in Colorado through a 0.1% allocation of taxable income.

    Community-Led Solutions – HomesFund (Colorado)

    HomesFund provides silent second mortgages to help households close financing gaps in rural Colorado, leveraging employer partnerships and state support.

    Housing Strategy 101

    This session presented a three-pillar strategy: preserving existing stock (NOAH – Naturally Occurring Affordable Housing), promoting new development, and increasing access through services.

    See the full report below for more details and the full list of sessions attended!

    Implications for NSNPHA

    The international models presented at the ISHF 2025 reinforce the value of intentional design, non-market delivery, and cross-sector collaboration. For NSNPHA, this suggests exploring:

    • New ownership and rental models.
    • Participatory planning with members.
    • Advocacy for infrastructure and climate adaptation funding.
    • Integration of health/social supports in housing delivery.

    Specifically, NSNPHA may find inspiration to:

    • Consider strategic partnerships to pilot rural-specific solutions, including modular builds.
    • Strengthen the role of tenant engagement and lived experience in planning and policy.
    • Advocate for stable, dedicated housing funds using models like Colorado’s Proposition 123.
    • Explore second mortgage tools or employer-assisted housing for workforce support.

    Below please find the full report!

    2025-06-4-6 ISHF Conference ReportDownload

    nsnonprofithousing

    July 17, 2025
    Uncategorized
    affordable housing, affordablehousing, community housing, Housing providers, international, International Housing Conference, International Social Housing Festival, ISHF, non-profit housing, nova scotia, social Housing
  • When “More Supply” Isn’t Enough: Let’s Talk About Rent, Incentives, and the Power of Non-Profit Housing


    By Trish McCourt

    There’s a common belief that if we just build more housing, affordability will follow. And while there’s some truth to that, what’s happening right now in Halifax suggests it’s not quite that simple.

    A recent allNovaScotia.com article pointed out something that many renters already notice: some of the newer, higher-end rentals are sitting empty, while prices in more affordable units keep rising. It’s a strange paradox—vacant buildings on one end, and people struggling to find anything livable on the other.

    entrance to apartment building with "For Rent" sign in window

    One part of the story that doesn’t get enough attention is the role of incentives. Landlords are offering things like a free month of rent, moving bonuses, or free parking to attract tenants. But even when those perks are added, the actual rent written on the lease stays high—and that’s the number used to calculate future increases.

    In other words, even if someone pays less at first, the long-term rent stays high. And because rent caps in Nova Scotia are tied to that lease number, these incentives help keep the baseline inflated.

    To be clear, my comments aren’t about blaming landlords. Many are facing high interest rates, insurance costs, and other financial pressures. Offering incentives might feel like the only option to fill a unit without lowering the listed rent, which could hurt future revenue or make investors nervous.

    But maybe it’s time we asked a simple question: if a unit isn’t renting at $2,000 a month, what would happen if the rent were just lowered—without the extras?

    This is where non-profit housing works differently. Non-profit providers don’t offer bonuses or flashy deals. Their goal is to keep rents affordable and stable over the long term—both for tenants and the sustainability of the housing itself. Instead of short-term perks, they focus on long-term value.

    More non-profit and co-op housing in our communities doesn’t just help the people who live there—it takes some pressure off the whole market. At the same time it puts a little pressure on to keep some market rents more affordable. When people have access to secure, affordable homes, they aren’t forced into overpriced units out of desperation. That benefits everyone, including private landlords who are also looking for more stability.

    There are policy changes that could help too—like making it easier to track “net effective rent” (what tenants actually pay), or prioritizing non-profit housing in affordable housing development programs. Perhaps there is a place for better incentives for landlords to offer truly affordable rents. But more than that, we need a shift in mindset.

    Housing isn’t just a transaction. It’s the foundation of people’s lives. And sometimes, the answer isn’t a move-in bonus or a parking spot—it’s simply a rent people can afford. Sometimes, it’s just lowering the rent.

    Trish

    July 16, 2025
    Uncategorized
    affordable housing, community housing, Housing providers, non-profit housing, nova scotia, Nova Scotia housing, rental housing
  • Job posting – NSNPHA 

    Job Title – Administrative Assistant – Short-term (summer job) April – August contract   

    Reports to – Executive Director, NSNPHA 

    Effective Date – ASAP 

    Compensation – $20 / hour – 37.5 hours/week – 14 weeks 

    About the Nova Scotia Non-Profit Housing Association (NSNPHA): 

    The mission of NSNPHA is to support the mobilization, empowerment, growth and sustainability of Nova Scotia’s non-profit housing providers and the informal housing groups, networks, and coalitions that support their work. 
     

    Why Join NSNPHA? 

    • Support non-profit housing initiatives across Nova Scotia. 
    • Flexible remote work environment. 

    Position Summary:  

    We are seeking a highly organized, proactive, and detail-oriented summer Administrative Assistant to support NSNPHA’s activities. The ideal candidate is adept at managing multiple tasks and competing priorities, as well as an effective communicator.  

    This position is funded by NS Student Summer Skills Incentive (SKILL), therefore the successful candidate must be a university or college student returning to school in the Fall 2025. 

    Duties and Responsibilities (not limited to): 

    • Assist with maintaining and coordinating the organization’s schedule, (i.e. deadlines, meetings, and events with stakeholders, government officials, and internal team).  
    • Assist with planning and arranging travel itineraries, accommodations, and related logistics for the ED and staff. 
    • Preparing agendas, briefings, and supporting documents for meetings. Take detailed notes and follow up on action items as needed. 
    • Assisting in tracking and managing key projects, ensuring deadlines are met and stakeholders are informed. 
    • Supporting the team with organizing and coordinating events, meetings, and networking opportunities related to the Association workplan and priorities. 
    • Maintaining organized electronic filing systems.   
    • Data entry. 
    • External communications (i.e. social media, newsletters, etc.)  
    • Performs other related duties as assigned.  

    Minimum Education, Experience and Qualifications: 

    • Minimum: enrollment in post-secondary education equivalent to one-two years of study in a professional program (i.e. office administration). 
    • Administrative support or related experience. 
    • Current Nova Scotia resident, Nova Scotia Driver’s License, and ability to travel provincewide.  

    Required skills: 

    • Ability to learn quickly and adapt to new technologies or environments. 
    • Strong asset: High proficiency with Microsoft 365/Sharepoint/Teams, and ability to assist others with technical support, required. 
    • Proficiency with project management and productivity tools like Asana, Slack, or Trello is an asset. Advanced knowledge of Microsoft PowerPoint, Word, Excel, and Teams is an asset. 
    • Strong communication skills required. 
    • Strong proficiency with social media and other external communications (i.e. writing newsletters) is an asset. 
    • A self-starter, strong time management skills, ability to manage a workload and multiple priorities, implement programs and goals, and effectively track information.  
    • Ability to work independently and remotely 
    • Previous experience working in non-profit is a strong asset. 
    • Previous experience and/or knowledge of community housing is an asset. 

    Application Process: 

    Please submit your resume and cover letter by email to jobs@nsnpha.com or through LinkedIn by 11:59 p.m. Atlantic on Friday, April 11, 2025. Selected candidates will be invited for an in-person or virtual interview with the ED. A work sample may also be requested. 

    We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. 

    Trish

    April 7, 2025
    Uncategorized
    affordable housing, community housing, Housing providers, job posting, jobs, non-profit housing, nova scotia, student jobs, summer jobs
  • Vote for community housing!

    The Canadian Housing and Renewal Association (CHRA), in partnership with the Housing Canada Coalition, has officially launched its Federal Election 2025 campaign—and the priorities strongly align with the key issues we brought forward during our Provincial Policy Engagement Day in January.

    As we move toward the next federal election, now is the time to raise our voices and advocate for bold investments and policies that support community housing across the country—and especially in rural and small-town Nova Scotia.

    CHRA and the Canada Housing Coalition have identified ten parts to their plan. We’ve highlighted three below, the remainder can be found in their toolkit and webpage.


    🔑 Three Urgent Priorities for Housing Stability

    The campaign identifies three clear and urgent priorities, each of which reflects the needs our members are experiencing on the ground:

    🛡️ 1. Creating an Immediate Housing Safety Net

    NSNPHA Recommendation: Ensure long-term rental assistance for low-income households in non-profit housing.


    🏘️ 2. Protecting Renters from Homelessness

    • Fund acquisition and preservation of lower-rent housing

    NSNPHA Recommendation: Build and/or acquire and preserve more non-profit housing.


    📈 3. Doubling the Share of Community Housing

    • Build, acquire, and preserve community housing stock

    NSNPHA Recommendations: Increase support for non-profit housing development; Invest in rural affordable housing solutions


    📣 How You Can Get Involved

    There are several ways you and your organization can support the campaign and help advocate for the future of community housing:

    ✅ 1. Endorse the Campaign

    Lend your voice to the Housing Canada Coalition’s “End the Housing Game” campaign and show your support by submitting an endorsement:👉 Submit an Endorsement


    📤 2. Share the Campaign Materials

    Help amplify the message by sharing the infographics, campaign video, and messaging on your platforms:👉 Visit the Campaign Website


    📚 3. Explore the Election Toolkit

    This practical resource includes background information, key messages, and templates for engaging during the election period:👉 Download the CHRA Election Toolkit (PDF)


    📰 4. Track Federal Party Housing Commitments

    Stay informed with up-to-date tracking of housing announcements from all federal parties:👉 Federal Election Tracker


    🎥 5. Register for the Campaign Launch Webinar

    Join CHRA and campaign partners for a live discussion about the campaign goals and next steps:📅 Tuesday, April 8, 2025
    🕐 1:00 PM ET
    👉 Register for the Webinar


    💬 Why This Matters in Nova Scotia

    These national priorities echo what we’re hearing across our network—a call for urgent action, deeper investments, and long-term solutions that recognize the unique challenges of non-profit housing development in Nova Scotia.

    Let’s continue building momentum and demonstrating the power of our sector during this critical election period.

    Together, we can turn policy into progress.

    Trish

    April 7, 2025
    Uncategorized
    affordable housing, Canada, Canada votes, community housing, federal election, housing, non-market housing, non-profit housing, nova scotia, vote
  • United Way Maritimes

    About Us

    What we do

    Contact us

    Effective July 1, 2024, seven United Way organizations across the Maritimes have unified into a single entity known as United Way Maritimes. This new organization serves Central and Southwestern New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Mainland Nova Scotia. United Way Halifax is a local impact organization that alleviates and reduces local poverty. We are trusted by donors, communities, organizations, and governments for our ability to achieve lasting change.

    • Fund community programs and supports that are improving lives every day
    • Create long-term solutions to poverty and the ways it impacts people in our community 
    • Advocate for policies, funding, or other changes that will remove barriers or bridge gaps
    • Leading projects and partnerships that result in long-term solutions for affordable housing 
    • Launching a training institute to help local advocates change public policy 
    • Increasing the total funding we provide to racialized communities and organizations in HRM 
    • Involving first-voice community members in our work and amplifying their voices 
    • Nurturing a network of hubs that provide equitable supports and services to local neighbourhoods 

    Website: https://www.unitedwayhalifax.ca/about-us

    nsnonprofithousing

    March 7, 2025
    Uncategorized
    affordablehousing, community housing, Housing providers, inclusions, non-profit housing, nova scotia
  • Annapolis County Housing Association

    About Us

    What we do

    Contact us

    The Annapolis County Housing Association was formed in 2023 with the objective of increasing the number of affordable housing units for low and moderate income households in Annapolis County.

    • Currently working to develop affordable housing options in the region

    Email: evan.fairn@gmail.com

    Website: annapoliscountyhousing.ca

    nsnonprofithousing

    March 7, 2025
    Uncategorized
    affordablehousing, community housing, Housing providers, non-profit housing, nova scotia
  • Nova Scotia Accessibility Housing Network Launch

    Nova Scotia needs not only more affordable housing but also more accessible housing. At NSNPHA, our vision is that everyone in Nova Scotia has dignified housing that meets their needs for home.

    Join us Wednesday March 12th at 11:00 AM AST for the launch of the Nova Scotia Accessibility Housing Network—a collaborative community focused on problem-solving and advocating for accessible, affordable housing across the province.

    We invite you to share how your organization is making an impact and let us know how NSNPHA can support and advocate for you. Together, we can build a more inclusive housing future!

    Register Here: Nova Scotia Accessibility Housing Network Launch

    nsnonprofithousing

    March 7, 2025
    Uncategorized
    Accessibility, affordablehousing, community housing, housing networks, Housing providers, inclusions, non-profit housing, nova scotia
  • Mahone Bay Community Land Co-operative

    About Us

    Working to establish co-operative housing in Mahone Bay and area

    Contact us

    Email: mbclc@protonmail.com

    Website: mahonebayco-op.ca

    nsnonprofithousing

    January 29, 2025
    Uncategorized
    community housing, coop
  • Guysborough County Housing Network

    About Us

    What we do

    Contact us

    We are in pre-development stage of becoming a non-profit housing provider. A Network of Organizations working together to address the housing needs in Guysborough County

    • Advocating and Educating

    Mail Box: 9409 Hwy 16 Cooks Cove, NS, B0H1N0

    Email: info@community-first.ca

    Phone: +1 902 870 1320

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GuysboroughCountyHousingNetwork

    Website: https://community-first.ca/

    nsnonprofithousing

    September 27, 2024
    Uncategorized
    affordablehousing, community housing, Housing providers, non-profit housing
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P.O. Box 190
Middle West Pubnico, NS
B0W 2M0

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