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The housing crisis in Canada continues to impact both urban and rural areas, and Neepawa, Manitoba, is no exception. The community is facing significant challenges due to an influx of newcomers, intensifying concerns about housing availability and affordability. Local organizations, especially those working with newcomers, have highlighted an urgent need for sustainable housing solutions.

Addressing this need, a new chapter of Habitat for Humanity was launched in Neepawa in March 2024. This non-profit organization aims to support low-income working families in achieving home ownership, fostering both stability and self-reliance within the community.

To kick off their efforts, the Neepawa Chapter hosted an information session on April 24, 2024, bringing together representatives from local government, businesses, and community organizations to discuss housing issues and explore collaborative solutions. Steve Krahn, Regional Development lead for Habitat for Humanity Manitoba, provided an overview of the organization’s impact, from international efforts to provincial initiatives, while detailing the program’s local potential. “There is affordable housing need, requirement for the citizens of this town, and Habitat is part of the solution,” Krahn said. “We may only build a few houses each year, but each home symbolizes a step toward addressing the broader housing challenges in our communities. Habitat creates a tangible result where, with the community’s efforts, families move into new homes with affordable payments, establishing a deeper connection and contribution to the community.”

John Lavich, Chair of Habitat for Humanity’s Neepawa Chapter, discussed the chapter’s inception and the dedicated teams now working to bring the project to life, including Fundraising and Selection Committees. “This year, we’re focused on raising the funds, and next year, we’re set for the build,” said Lavich. “It’ll be a challenging first run, but with our community’s involvement—from Neepawa, Minnedosa, Gladstone, Carberry—we believe we’ll have the support we need. Whether it’s building here or in surrounding towns, this is about helping a family in need and giving back to our area.”

On May 8, Lavich presented the Habitat initiative to the Rotary Club of Neepawa, inviting partnership opportunities to strengthen their mission. Additionally, the Selection Committee hosted a community information session on June 17 to connect with potential applicants and others interested in supporting the cause.

The establishment of Habitat for Humanity’s Neepawa Chapter marks a significant step toward ensuring that all community members have access to safe and affordable housing. With continued local support, the chapter aims to make a lasting impact on families facing housing challenges.