Portrait of social and community housing in Mauricie, Québec

The research reflects first-hand perspectives on social and community housing in Mauricie from marginalized and vulnerable populations. The communities in focus include low-income seniors, marginalized people (those experiencing mental health issues, addiction, homelessness), immigrants, women fleeing domestic violence and Indigenous people. The study highlights two key issues affecting the housing experience of these populations: affordability and discrimination. It presents recommendations to consider social and community housing development from an inclusive, fair and sustainable perspective. 

Download the final report
(Executive Summary available in English)

Project scope and expected outcomes

Housing needs in the Mauricie region

Since the housing reports of 2010 and 2017, the Mauricie area has seen large increases in senior and Indigenous populations. These populations are subject to a variety of factors (age, Indigenous status, immigration status, racialization, disability, social class) that can reinforce inequalities and discrimination. Mauricie also has one of the highest rates of families living in poverty in Québec. An effective regional housing strategy needs to take these factors into account.

This research project documented the housing landscape in the region to help improve the response to the housing needs of marginalized and vulnerable populations. The project considered different population groups as well as rural, urban and remote location factors. It included gender-based plus analysis and considered the dynamics of local territories.

Major lessons learned

The research showed that affordability is a key issue. The cost of rent is increasing faster than the reference thresholds of CMHC, the Société d’habitation du Québec and the Administrative Tribunal. The average rent exceeds the income of the poorest groups:

• 53% of those in the study have an income of less than $15,000 per year
• only a small portion (33%) of these vulnerable populations benefit from subsidized housing

Several groups experience discrimination, particularly Indigenous people, racialized people, immigrants, families, women, those with mental health issues and the very poor.

Accessibility and safety issues were priorities for all groups. Women experiencing domestic violence face particular difficulties accessing secure housing. In addition, women risk residential instability if they leave a violent spouse.

The lack of adequate and affordable housing in the current housing crisis places many among these vulnerable populations in a situation of residential instability.

Recommendations for action

The research determined two areas of focus to improve the situation for individuals in vulnerable situations:

1. Take action to better reach, include, support and protect the rights of vulnerable populations from an intersectional analysis and service access perspective.
2. Take action to promote and develop social and community housing by preserving housing stock and using financial tools, long-term affordable housing plans and stronger government-wide action.