The City of Lethbridge says it was disappointed be left out of newly announced funding for affordable housing. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

City of Lethbridge ‘disappointed’ to be left out of affordable housing funds

Jul 15, 2025 | 10:08 AM

UPDATE: Lethbridge-East MLA defends provincial funding record

Original Story:

The Alberta and Canadian governments recently announced $203 million in funding for affordable housing in the province, but not a single dollar will go to Lethbridge.

Jason Nixon, the province’s Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services, said on Friday that the 25 funded projects would ensure that low-income Albertans would have access to affordable housing as the population continues to grow at an unprecedented rate.

“Alberta’s government is focused on results. We’re getting shovels in the ground and roofs over Albertans’ heads. With this record investment, thousands more low-income Albertans will have a safe, affordable home they can count on, so they can move forward with dignity and stability,” says Nixon.

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More than three-quarters of the announced funding, or $158 million, will go to projects in Calgary and Edmonton, while the announcements mostly avoid communities south of Calgary.

The City of Lethbridge says in a statement to LNN that it is “disappointed” that no housing projects in Lethbridge received funding in the latest round of provincial allocations.

“Like many communities across Canada, Lethbridge is facing growing pressure on its housing system, particularly when it comes to the need for more affordable rental options. This decision highlights the urgency of continuing to strengthen local partnerships and programs to better position our community to access future funding opportunities,” reads the statement from the City of Lethbridge.

It continues to state that the City remains committed to working collaboratively with local housing providers, non-profits, and other levels of government to ensure that Lethbridge is ready to deliver high-impact, shovel-ready projects that respond to the real and pressing needs of residents.

Municipal officials say they are pleased to have received funding from previous investments, including $5 million for the newly expanded homeless shelter.

The Lethbridge Housing Authority also received $10.2 million in 2024 for a new supportive housing complex on the north side, which should be completed later this year.

READ MORE: Expansion to Lethbridge homeless shelter complete

READ MORE: Ground broken on new supportive housing complex in Lethbridge