Introduction Although shelter is one of the basic human needs, access to it is almost completely controlled by the marketplace. CED recognizes the importance of affordable housing as a primary component of a healthy community. Its no wonder that creating and maintaining community-based housing is a major CED theme. This chapter features Entre Nous Femmes (ENF), a non-profit housing society dedicated to providing safe and affordable housing geared to female-led, single-parent families. The story is told through the personal experience of Kathy Zazulyk and her son, Robert. Kathy, a single parent with few marketable skills, was relieved when she moved with Robert into an ENF building located in Vancouvers east side. But Kathy didnt just find a good home. ENF's tenant volunteers are invited and encouraged to assume leadership roles. Kathy responded to every opportunity to participate, and today, she is a well-employed and eloquent spokeswoman for social housing. The Co-operative Housing Community Land Trust Foundation is also highlighted in this chapter. The Land Trust initiative illustrates how collective community action can ensure future access to affordable housing.
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