Ammar Al Asmi: Big issue requires a big solution

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In our beautiful New Brunswick, where trees and hills spread far and wide, there’s a recent struggle that has troubled many of its residents – finding a home that’s not too expensive. We used to think our province was a good place for cheap living, but things have changed. These days, it’s tough for a lot of people to find a place they can afford to live in. This problem isn’t just about numbers; it’s about the heart of what makes a place feel like home.

Over the past decade, the task of securing housing in New Brunswick has grown increasingly challenging. Once, finding a home here didn’t break the bank, with a variety of options available. However, the landscape has shifted drastically. Prices have surged, and the housing market offers fewer choices than before. This predicament isn’t unique to New Brunswick; it’s a nationwide issue that’s been steadily escalating. Yet, it hits differently when we reminisce about New Brunswick’s reputation as one of Canada’s more affordable provinces. Families who once proudly owned homes now find themselves priced out, struggling to keep pace with rising costs. Meanwhile, renters face the overwhelming prospect of stretching their budgets thinner each month just to make ends meet. Regrettably, the situation continues to deteriorate with each passing year, intensifying the strain on individuals and families across the province.

When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, it brought about unprecedented challenges. Businesses closed their doors, and countless individuals found themselves abruptly out of work. This economic upheaval exacerbated the already dire housing situation, plunging many into even deeper financial chaos. Suddenly, the necessity of having a secure and reasonably priced place to call home became very apparent. However, amidst the chaos, there simply weren’t enough available housing options to accommodate the surge in demand. Even as the initial wave of the pandemic receded, its effects continued to grow throughout the housing market, spreading ongoing difficulties. It’s like we’re standing on shaky ground, not sure what’s going to happen next.

The consequences of the housing crisis in Canada are major, leaving a profound impact on individuals, families, and communities alike. As housing costs continue to skyrocket beyond the reach of many Canadians, the most immediate consequence is homelessness, forcing vulnerable individuals onto the streets or into inadequate living conditions. For those fortunate enough to secure housing, the strain of inflated rent or mortgage payments often means sacrificing other essentials, such as health care or education, leading to increased financial instability and poverty. Moreover, the ripple effects extend to mental health, as the stress and uncertainty of unstable housing take a toll on well-being. As families are displaced from their communities due to unaffordable living costs, social cohesion suffers, eroding the fabric of neighbourhoods and diminishing the sense of belonging.

As we ponder what lies ahead, there’s a multitude of uncertainties clouding our thoughts. Are we capable of finding solutions to the issues driving the housing crisis? Will every individual and family manage to secure a home that fits within their budget? Or are we destined to witness a worsening situation, with an increasing number of families facing financial strain? These questions loom large, holding significant implications for the kind of society we’ll inhabit. It’s undeniably a difficult challenge, but if we join forces and genuinely commit to making a difference, we have the potential to shape a future where every person has the comfort and security of a place they can proudly call home.

The housing crisis in Canada is a big issue that requires a big solution. It’s not solely about finances; it’s about ensuring that every individual has access to a secure and reasonably priced home. Achieving this goal will demand concerted efforts from various sectors of society, including community groups, businesses, and government bodies. While the task ahead may seem discouraging, the potential benefits are immense. By addressing housing insecurity, we can foster a sense of belonging and stability for all members of our community.

Looking to the future, it’s crucial to recognize that the true strength of a society lies in its ability to care for its most vulnerable members. I truly wish for us to survive this crisis and move onto better days soon.

Ammar Al Asmi lives in Moncton and is the former director of a weekly newspaper in Daraa, Syria. He can be contacted via email at ammar.1966@hotmail.com