With government budget season upon us, it’s more critical than ever to raise our voices for vulnerable families facing mounting affordability pressures. In Calgary, we’re seeing firsthand the effects of an affordable housing crisis, inflation, and inadequate support systems, all of which deepen the challenges vulnerable families endure daily. It’s easy to feel powerless, but in reality, every single voice has the potential to drive meaningful change. Here’s why your voice matters and how you can use it to advocate for the needs of those most at risk in our communities.
The Reality of Affordability in 2024
At Inn from the Cold, we witness the realities of rising costs and stagnant support levels for families. The numbers are staggering: affordable housing units are in short supply, and waitlists for support programs are growing rapidly. Families are increasingly pushed toward emergency shelters as rents soar and wages fail to keep pace. The pressures on low-income families—many of whom work tirelessly to provide for their children—are more intense than ever. Like much of Canada, Calgary is grappling with an affordability crisis that affects everyone, but the impacts are felt most deeply by those who already face barriers to stability.
Why Government Advocacy is Essential
Government budgets have the power to directly influence the quality of life for vulnerable families. Funding allocations shape the availability of affordable housing, access to social supports, and resources for shelters and family support services. By increasing funding for these essential services, our government can create a safety net that not only helps families in crisis but also supports long-term stability. Advocating for increased funding ensures that policymakers are aware of these pressing needs and that they prioritize the well-being of families who depend on community support.
How You Can Use Your Voice
Advocating doesn’t mean you need to be an expert on policy; it simply requires a commitment to speaking up. Here’s how you can make a difference:
- Contact Your Local Representatives: Contact your local city councillors, provincial MLAs, and federal MPs. Share your concerns about affordability and housing. Explain why increased support is needed for families in Calgary. Elected officials need to hear directly from the community to make informed decisions.
- Share Your Story or the Stories You See: If you or someone you know has been affected by the housing crisis, share those experiences. Personal stories resonate with decision-makers and can be a powerful tool to bring abstract issues into focus.
- Engage on Social Media: Amplify your message by sharing information about the affordability crisis on social media. Tag government officials, use relevant hashtags, and join online conversations to raise awareness and advocate for funding increases.
- Participate in Community Events: Many organizations, host community events or advocacy days focused on raising awareness around issues of affordability and housing. Your presence can make a difference, as these events are opportunities to connect with like-minded advocates and amplify the message.
- Support Nonprofits in Their Advocacy Efforts: Nonprofit organizations often lead the charge in advocating for funding and policy changes. By supporting organizations like Inn from the Cold, you help strengthen our ability to push for the resources vulnerable families need.
What We’re Seeing at The Inn
Every week at Inn from the Cold, we meet families who are newly experiencing homelessness due to the affordability crisis. We’re witnessing the impact of a housing market that’s out of reach for too many, coupled with rising costs for essentials. The need for family-sized affordable housing units and more robust social supports is at an all-time high, and without these supports, more families face prolonged shelter stays and fewer opportunities for stability.
Let’s Make a Difference Together
This government budget season, let’s use our voices to advocate for increased funding and support for families who need it most. Whether you choose to contact representatives, share your story, or support nonprofits, every action counts. Your voice can help ensure that our government prioritizes funding for affordable housing and social support systems. Together, we can influence decisions that will make Calgary a place where every family has the opportunity to thrive.
