Today, the Honourable Nathaniel Erskine-Smith, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure, and Communities, announced the reappointment of Marie-Josée Houle as Canada's Federal Housing Advocate effective February 21, 2025, for a three-year term.
As the Federal Housing Advocate, Ms. Houle will continue to monitor the implementation of housing policy and assess its impact on persons who are members of vulnerable groups by independently conducting research, consulting with those who have lived experience of housing need or homelessness, collaborating with vulnerable groups and civil society organizations, reviewing submissions related to systemic housing issues within federal jurisdiction, and presenting recommendations to the Minister to further the housing policy of the Government of Canada.
Ms. Houle was appointed as Canada's first ever Federal Housing Advocate in 2022 and is recognized for her community activism, expertise in human rights, and extensive knowledge of the housing and homelessness system. During her first term, Ms. Houle took important steps to advance the mandate of the Federal Housing Advocate, including by:
- Conducting a review of homeless encampments to better understand and address the need of vulnerable populations;
- Examining the impact of financialization on housing affordability and housing insecurity; and,
- Engaging with Indigenous partners to monitor the state of housing in Indigenous communities.
Every Canadian deserves a safe and affordable place to call home. That's why the Government of Canada, in collaboration with its partners, is investing in housing and infrastructure to create resilient, inclusive communities and affordable housing options that address the needs of Canadians, aiming to tackle the country's housing crisis.