This article is part of a series called How energy-efficient affordable housing is improving the lives of Canadians. The series features the inspiring stories of six Canadians who are living comfortably and saving money thanks to energy-efficient affordable housing.

For Megan, living at Rossland Yards in British Columbia’s Kootenay region has meant more than just finding a place to live—it’s meant finding stability. 

“I’ve lived in the Kootenays my whole life,” she says. “I’ve been at Rossland Yards for about a year and a half now, and it’s been such a good fit for me and my boys.”

Megan lives in a two-bedroom unit with her 12-year-old son and her 18-year-old nephew, who stays with them part-time. After years of renting in different communities, she says the difference in comfort, safety, and affordability has been life changing. “I feel safe here, and the boys are happy," she says. "That’s the biggest thing.”

A safe, family-friendly space

Before moving to Rossland Yards, Megan lived in older, more expensive homes that didn’t always feel secure. “I was paying over $2,000 a month for a place where I couldn’t even use the backyard,” she recalls. “It just didn’t feel safe.”

At Rossland Yards, things are different. “Security was a huge thing for me,” she says. “You need a fob to get in, and I’ve never had any problems. It makes me feel more comfortable—especially as a mom.” Her new home, she says, is bright, spacious and welcoming. 

“My unit is perfect for me and the boys. We each have our space, and it’s big enough for them to play or hang out. It’s really lovely.”

The building’s pet-friendly policy is important to them as well. In the past, it was difficult for the family to find housing because many landlords didn’t want pets or kids. “I have a cat—she’s a pretty expensive one,” she says with a laugh. “I’m so glad I was able to bring her. Here, we’re accepted as we are.”

Comfort that makes a difference

For Megan, comfort is about more than convenience—it’s about health and peace of mind. She lives with chronic bronchitis, so stable indoor temperatures matter. 

"I’ve rented lots of places over the years, and this is the only one that hasn’t been drafty. The temperature stays steady all year—I’ve never even had to turn on the baseboard heaters. That consistency has made a real difference for my health. In the past, moving from a warm room to a cold one would trigger my bronchitis, but here it’s all one temperature. It’s honestly been good for my health.”

She also appreciates how well the building’s systems keep the air fresh. “There are little vents that bring in clean air, so it never feels stuffy,” she says. “It’s a neat feature, and it makes a difference, especially for me and the boys.”

Affordability that creates room to breathe

In addition to feeling healthier and more secure, Megan says the affordability of her home has eased a major burden. 

“Before, I was always behind on bills. Now, I’m actually ahead—I even have a credit on my account. It’s a huge break.”

Having predictable costs means she can plan for the future. “It’s affordable, and that makes all the difference,” she says. “I can put money away for when the boys are older and want to travel or do their own thing. I’ve never been able to do that before.”

That stability, she explains, has reduced stress for the whole family. “I’m happier, which means the boys are happier,” she says. “I’m not constantly worried about rent or utilities. It’s such a relief.”

Room to grow

With that stability has come time to focus on what she loves. “I’m a bit of a language nerd,” she says, smiling. “Since moving here, I’ve learned a few new languages just because I have the time now. I’m not constantly running around trying to make ends meet.”

She also spends more time with her sons—going camping, hiking, or just getting outside. “We’re outdoors people,” she says. “Now, when I tell them to go play or go for a walk, I know they’re safe. They can go to the skate park, they can bike, they can just be kids.” For Megan, that sense of balance—safety, affordability, and the freedom to enjoy life—is what makes Rossland Yards special.

“This place is my favourite out of everywhere I’ve lived. It’s safe, it’s beautiful, and it feels like home.”

Rossland Yards was developed by the Lower Columbia Affordable Housing Society and supported by the Green Municipal Fund’s Sustainable Affordable Housing (SAH) initiative. 

This article is part of a series called How energy-efficient affordable housing is improving the lives of Canadians. The series features the inspiring stories of six Canadians who are living comfortably and saving money thanks to energy-efficient affordable housing.

At the resident’s request for privacy, their name has been changed and identifying information has been removed. 

When Jessie moved into their home at Aspen Heights in Saskatoon, they noticed the difference almost right away.

“There’s really not a lot that I can think of that’s negative,” Jessie says. “The units are bright, they’re new, and they have all the comforts of home you would want.”

Aspen Heights, developed by the National Affordable Housing Corporation (NAHC) with support from the Green Municipal Fund’s Sustainable Affordable Housing (SAH) initiative, includes 56 energy-efficient townhouse units. Thirty percent are designated as low-income households, with priority for residents with mental health or developmental needs.

Jessie has lived at Aspen Heights since 2022 and describes it as a comfortable, well-built place to call home. “It’s in a good part of the city—away from the hustle and bustle—and it just feels more at home because of that.”

Living comfortably year-round

The homes at Aspen Heights are built to handle Saskatchewan’s extreme weather, with well-insulated walls, durable construction, and efficient heating and ventilation systems that help residents stay comfortable all year long.

“There aren’t as many fluctuations when the seasons change, which is really good. We have extreme weather in Saskatchewan—really cold in winter and hot in summer—so anything that mediates that is nice. It’s literally shelter from the elements.”

Jessie adds that the concrete foundation helps the unit stay cool in summer, while good insulation prevents drafts in winter. “It seems to be extremely good that way,” they say. “Everything’s sealed off well. You don’t feel anything—it operates as it should.”

When Jessie moved in, staff walked residents through the home’s energy-saving features. “We went over the air-exchange system and how to set it for summer or winter,” Jessie recalls. “That helps with temperature control, and obviously that saves money because you don’t have to turn the heat up as much.”

Predictable bills, less stress

Lower utility costs have been one of the biggest benefits of living at Aspen Heights. Jessie says their energy bills are lower and more consistent than anywhere they’ve lived before. “It hasn’t gone up since I moved in,” they say. “That’s a huge help for someone working part-time. I definitely wouldn’t be able to afford to live here without it being cheaper on the bill.”

That financial stability has eased day-to-day pressures. “It’s cut down on stress,” Jessie explains. 

“I haven’t had to stress as much about increasing rent or utility costs. It’s allowed me to spend more money on other things, like furthering my education and increasing my skills—and that plays a large part in my mental health and happiness.”

A sense of community

Jessie also appreciates the atmosphere at Aspen Heights. “It’s nice to be around other kind, respectful people,” they say. They enjoy recognizing familiar faces in the complex. “It makes you feel like you’re not alone,” they say. “There’s a sense of community here.” That sense of stability and belonging is something NAHC and GMF aimed to achieve when they partnered on Aspen Heights: creating energy-efficient homes that are safe, affordable, and supportive. 

Redefining affordable housing

Asked what they wish more people understood about affordable housing, Jessie reflects for a moment. 

“People often think affordable housing is for someone who’s really struggling — just barely getting by. But it can be something different. It can impact you in a positive way and help you grow and improve areas of your life that you wouldn’t think it would.”

For them, Aspen Heights represents what affordable housing can and should be: well-designed, comfortable, and built to last. “If you’re going to do it right,” Jessie says, “this is the way to do it.”

Aspen Heights was developed by the National Affordable Housing Corporation (NAHC) and supported by the Green Municipal Fund’s Sustainable Affordable Housing (SAH) initiative. 

This article is part of a series called How energy-efficient affordable housing is improving the lives of Canadians. The series features the inspiring stories of six Canadians who are living comfortably and saving money thanks to energy-efficient affordable housing.

For Eli, moving into Aspen Heights in Saskatoon has been a turning point. 

“I’m very happy here,” he says. “Compared to where I used to live, it’s a much nicer neighbourhood. I feel safer and much happier.”

Before coming to Aspen Heights, Eli rented in older buildings where maintenance and comfort were ongoing challenges. Heating was unreliable, and the neighbourhoods didn’t always feel safe. “It was hard to relax,” he says. “Something always needed fixing, or I’d worry about the bills changing.”

At Aspen Heights, things are different. “Here, everything just works,” he says. “It’s quiet, clean, and well maintained, and I don’t have to worry about anything.” He adds that the stability and sense of care in the community make a big difference day to day. 

“It’s nice to come home and know that you’re in a good place.”

Developed by the National Affordable Housing Corporation (NAHC), Aspen Heights was created with the goal of giving residents like Eli a stable, affordable place to call home. The development demonstrates how affordable housing can support both quality of life and environmental goals.

A home that works as it should

Eli describes his home as solid, comfortable, and easy to manage through every season. “It’s very comfortable,” he says. “In the winter, if I’m not happy with the temperature, I can adjust it easily, and in the summer, I just change the thermostat a little and it’s fine.”

Living in Saskatchewan means dealing with long, cold winters and warm summers, but Eli says his home handles the changes well. “It’s nice and warm,” he explains. “Everything works the way it should.”

While he doesn’t focus much on the technical features, he appreciates that the building performs efficiently without extra effort on his part. “I might have been told about the energy-saving features when I first moved in,” he says, “but what matters is that everything stays comfortable and it’s easy to manage.”

Predictable costs, lasting peace of mind

For Eli, one of the biggest differences at Aspen Heights is the consistency of his monthly expenses. 

“I always pay the same amount every month, and it never changes. It’s cost-effective, and I don’t have to worry about my finances being impacted by utilities.”

That stability gives him peace of mind and a stronger sense of control over his budget. “It’s reliable,” he says. “I know what to expect, and that makes a big difference.”

He also appreciates that the homes were designed with sustainability in mind. “It’s good for the environment,” he says. “The more we can help right now, the better.” For Eli, that’s an added benefit of living somewhere that’s responsible as well as affordable.

A neighbourhood that feels like home

Beyond the comfort of his own unit, Eli says he values the quiet, friendly atmosphere of the community itself. “The location is great, and the people are nice overall,” he says. “I like the nature that’s around when you walk here.” That sense of safety and belonging is what stands out most for him. “Before, safety was a concern,” he says. “Now I live in a nice neighbourhood, and I feel comfortable and secure.”

Housing that supports well-being

Eli says his health and comfort have remained steady since moving in. “My health is good, the air quality is good, and I stay warm in the winter,” he says. “It’s good overall.” The biggest difference, he says, is the sense of ease that comes from knowing his housing is reliable and secure. “It’s a good place to live,” he says simply—a reflection of how stable, sustainable housing helps residents feel grounded and at home.

Aspen Heights was developed by the National Affordable Housing Corporation (NAHC) and supported by the Green Municipal Fund’s Sustainable Affordable Housing (SAH) initiative. 

This article is part of a series called How energy-efficient affordable housing is improving the lives of Canadians. The series features the inspiring stories of six Canadians who are living comfortably and saving money thanks to energy-efficient affordable housing.

At the resident’s request for privacy, their name has been changed and identifying information has been removed. 

When Robin first moved into Priscilla’s Place, the new affordable housing complex built and operated by YWCA Banff, they weren’t sure what to expect. 

“Before I moved in, I thought the apartments might be a little small,” they recall. “But once I settled in, I realized how well designed they are. You can fit everything you need.”

After several years in Banff, AB, Robin knows how challenging housing can be. They’ve lived in crowded staff accommodations, older rentals with difficult landlords, and shared homes that were expensive and unpredictable. “Like a lot of people who live here, I’ve faced housing challenges: cramped spaces, rising costs, and uncertainty about how long I could stay,” they say. That uncertainty ended when Robin moved to Priscilla’s Place. 

“It’s the most consistent and well-managed place I’ve ever lived.”

A quiet, comfortable home

Robin works in both Banff and nearby Canmore, AB, often spending long days outdoors. Coming home to a peaceful, well-built space, they say, is something they don’t take for granted. “It’s nice and quiet here,” Robin says. “The temperature control is fantastic—cool in the summer, warm in the winter—and it just feels solid. You can tell it’s really well built.”

That comfort carries through every season. “When it’s freezing outside, you come home and it’s warm. When it’s hot, you come home and it’s cool,” they say. “You don’t have to think about it—it just works.”

They also appreciate how thoughtfully the building supports residents’ everyday needs. “There’s a separate storage area for bikes and snowboards, which is perfect for Banff life,” they say. “You don’t have to drag your gear through the apartment or worry about where to put it.”

Predictability that reduces stress

One of the biggest differences Robin has noticed is financial stability. “All the utilities are included, so I know exactly what I’m paying each month,” they say. “It makes budgeting really easy, and I don’t have to stress about bills going up in the winter.”

That predictability has a ripple effect. “It takes a lot of pressure off. When you’re not worrying about rent increases or hidden costs, you can focus on work, on enjoying life, and on actually being part of the community.”

Robin also values how YWCA Banff keeps residents informed about energy use and conservation. “They send reminders to be mindful of water and power,” they say. “It’s small things like that that help everyone do their part.”

A place that supports well-being

For Robin, stable and affordable housing has had a clear impact on their mental health. 

“The biggest thing is stability. You’re not wondering if your landlord is going to sell or raise the rent. You can just breathe a bit easier.”

That sense of security has allowed them to focus on the things that make living in Banff special. “I can actually enjoy being outdoors now,” they say. “I go biking after work, I can afford a gym membership, and I have space to keep all my gear organized.”

Robin says having a pet-friendly building has also made a big difference. Their dog has become part of their daily rhythm. “Finding pet-friendly housing in Banff is really hard,” they say. “Knowing I could have him here was a huge relief. He’s ten now, and we go everywhere together.”

Gratitude for good management

Robin is quick to credit YWCA Banff for the way they run the building. “They’re professional, respectful, and easy to reach if something comes up,” they say. “They really care about the residents. You have your independence, but you also know there’s support if you need it.”

After years of uncertainty, that reliability means a lot. 

“It’s rare to find a place that’s affordable, comfortable, and well-managed. I feel really lucky to live here.”

Pricillia’s Place was developed by YWCA Banff and supported by the Green Municipal Fund’s Sustainable Affordable Housing (SAH) initiative. 

This article is part of a series called How energy-efficient affordable housing is improving the lives of Canadians. The series features the inspiring stories of six Canadians who are living comfortably and saving money thanks to energy-efficient affordable housing.

When Fanny moved into her new apartment at Priscilla’s Place in Banff, AB, the first thing she noticed was the light.

“I used to live in a basement suite,” she says. “It was dark, and I felt a bit depressed. Now I’m on the second floor and get the afternoon sun. It makes such a difference—it’s really nice to have that light every day.”

Fanny describes herself as an active, outdoorsy person. After several years in Banff’s tight rental market, she waited over a year and a half to get into Priscilla’s Place. She had heard from friends and colleagues that it was worth the wait. “When I got the call, I was so happy,” she says. “It’s really hard in Banff to get your own space—something that’s clean, comfortable and affordable. I’m really grateful.”

A home that feels like her own

Fanny moved into her studio apartment in October 2024 and says having her own place has changed how she feels day to day. “Before, I was always sharing—roommates, shared kitchens, shared living spaces. Here, it’s my space. I can invite friends over, have tea, cook dinner, and not have to check with anyone. It’s simple, but it’s freedom.”

With long winters and limited daylight, she appreciates being able to host people at home. “It’s easier to connect now,” she says. “In Banff, everyone’s working or skiing or travelling, so when you do have a night off, it’s nice to just have people over and hang out.”

She’s found herself doing more of that lately: small dinners, game nights, and cultural celebrations with friends from around the world. “We all come from different places,” she says. “It’s nice to share meals and traditions together. It makes winter feel shorter.”

Comfort through design

Priscilla’s Place was built by YWCA Banff with support from the Green Municipal Fund’s Sustainable Affordable Housing (SAH) initiative, combining affordability with energy efficiency. While Fanny hadn’t paid much attention to the building’s environmental features at first, she’s noticed the difference in comfort.

“The building keeps the heat really well. I don’t even need to use my heater most of the winter—it stays around 18 or 20 degrees even when it’s –20 outside. The temperature stays steady year-round. It’s comfortable in every season. You can tell the building was made with care.”

She likes that her apartment is quiet, too. “It’s peaceful,” she says. “You can hear a bit from the hallway, but people are respectful, and it’s really calm. I like that I can come home and just relax.”

Affordability that brings balance

Like many Banff locals, Fanny has juggled multiple jobs to make ends meet. Affordable rent, she says, has changed that. “Before, everyone I knew was working two or three jobs,” she explains. “Now, I can work just one and still live comfortably.” That shift has made time for herself—and for rest. 

“It means I don’t have to spend all my time working just to afford a place to live. I can actually enjoy it—be at home, cook, invite people over. It’s a big change.”

Feeling brighter, inside and out

When asked what Priscilla’s Place has meant for her well-being, Fanny doesn’t hesitate. “I’m happier,” she says. “The daylight, the space, not having to share—it makes a big difference. Even on a rainy day, I’m happy to stay in my place.”

She’s also spending more time on the things she loves: outdoor sports, board games with friends, and simply enjoying the view from her sunny windows. “I have lots of gear—skis, a snowboard, a bike—and there’s space to store it all safely,” she says. “That’s a big deal here.”

For Fanny, having a home that’s both affordable and uplifting has changed how she feels about living in Banff. 

“It’s just nice to have my own space. It feels like home.”

Pricillia’s Place was developed by YWCA Banff and supported by the Green Municipal Fund’s Sustainable Affordable Housing (SAH) initiative. 

This article is part of a series called How energy-efficient affordable housing is improving the lives of Canadians. The series features the inspiring stories of six Canadians who are living comfortably and saving money thanks to energy-efficient affordable housing.

After more than a decade living in Banff, AB, Em knows how hard it can be to find a good place to live. 

“I’ve been here about 12 years,” they say. “Finding affordable housing is nearly impossible these days. Getting into this program was a game changer for me.”

Em works in retail management in town and has seen the housing challenges faced by long-term locals. “Banff has always been expensive, but in the last few years it’s become so much worse,” they explain. 

For Em, moving into Priscilla’s Place, the YWCA Banff’s new affordable housing development supported by the Green Municipal Fund’s Sustainable Affordable Housing (SAH) initiative, marked a turning point. 

“It’s the first time in my 12 years here that I can actually save money and put something aside. It just felt like a new chapter. A clean, well-cared-for building where everything works—that’s a big deal here.”

Comfort that feels reliable

Em has lived in many kinds of housing in Banff, such as shared staff accommodations and basement suites. They say the difference at Priscilla’s Place is striking. “It’s so easy to manage,” they say. “The air and heat system is fantastic. You can cool it down quickly in summer or keep it warm when it’s –40° out. That’s a nice change.”

The building’s insulation also makes a difference. “There are no drafts, and the windows are tight,” Em explains. “In my last place, half the heating didn’t work and the bathroom was freezing all winter. Here, everything just works the way it’s supposed to.”
That reliability means Em no longer worries about repairs or safety issues. “It’s nice not to have to chase down a landlord,” they say. “The housing manager and maintenance team here are really responsive. If something comes up, it’s dealt with right away. That kind of reliability takes a lot of stress away.”

Stability that changes everything

Banff’s housing market can be unpredictable; leases can end suddenly, and rent increases are common. For Em, the security of knowing their home is stable has been transformative. “I’m just not stressed about housing anymore,” they say. “That’s huge here. You never know when your landlord might sell their house or ask you to move out. Here, I can breathe.” Being able to plan ahead has allowed Em to start saving for the first time in years. 

“It’s given me the chance to build some financial stability. Before, I was always just trying to keep up. Now I can actually think about what’s next.”

A place that supports belonging

Priscilla’s Place is pet-friendly, which made it possible for Em to bring their cat, Turnip. “Having pet-friendly housing in Banff is huge,” they say. “It makes you feel like you belong, like you’re supposed to be here. You’re not worried about getting kicked out or finding another place that will take you and your pet.”

The building also attracts many long-term locals, something Em appreciates. “It’s nice to know that there are others who’ve been here a long time and want to stay,” they say. “It makes the community feel more grounded.”

Room to grow and give back

With housing worries off their mind, Em has had more time to focus on hobbies and community work. “Before, I was working a lot just to afford rent,” they explain. “Now I know I can pay my bills, so I’ve been able to volunteer more and take on projects I care about.” Recently, Em served on the board for Banff Pride and continues to volunteer at local events. They’ve also rediscovered their love of crafting. “I crochet,” they say. “It’s relaxing. I finally have the time and space to do it.”

Looking ahead

For Em, affordable housing has created possibilities that once felt out of reach. “This is giving me the opportunity to plan my next chapter,” they say. “It’s the first time in a decade I’ve been able to think about moving somewhere new.”

As they prepare for a future move to Victoria, B.C., Em is grateful for what Priscilla’s Place made possible. 

“This place gave me stability when I needed it most. It’s let me save, it’s reduced my stress, and it’s reminded me what home is supposed to feel like."

Pricillia’s Place was developed by YWCA Banff and supported by the Green Municipal Fund’s Sustainable Affordable Housing (SAH) initiative. 

When communities across Canada add more affordable housing, there’s no one who benefits more than the residents themselves—especially when those homes are designed or retrofitted for greater energy efficiency.

Over the last five years, the Green Municipal Fund’s (GMF) Sustainable Affordable Housing (SAH) initiative has helped build or upgrade more than 7,500 units across the country. That means thousands of Canadians have been able to improve their quality of life with housing that is safe, healthy, and comfortable—providing stability while saving them up to $200 a month on energy bills. Residents are enjoying healthier air, greater year-round comfort, and homes designed to foster their well-being. Building operators are seeing the benefits, too, as they're able to reduce operational costs by 46 percent.

In honour of National Housing Day, we chatted with six residents who shared what it means to finally have a safe, affordable, and energy-efficient place to call home.

Articles in the series

Priscilla’s Place: A bright place to call home in Banff

• After years of living in a dark basement suite, Fanny found a sunny second-floor apartment at YWCA Banff’s Priscilla’s Place. With affordable rent and energy-efficient design, she can now work one job, enjoy year-round comfort, and spend time with friends in her bright, welcoming home.

Aspen Heights: Finding stability and comfort in Saskatoon

• At Aspen Heights, Jessie immediately noticed the difference—steady temperatures, lower energy bills, and reliable maintenance. The affordable rent and comfortable, efficient design have made life less stressful and allowed them to focus on education and personal goals.

Rossland Yards: Building stability and a sense of home

• For Megan and her family, Rossland Yards in British Columbia has been life changing. Their new home is bright, spacious, and secure—a major improvement over the expensive, unstable rentals they left behind.

Priscilla’s Place: A place to breathe and belong

• After more than a decade in Banff’s challenging rental market, Em found stability and comfort at Priscilla’s Place. The building’s efficient design keeps energy costs low, giving them the financial space to save for the future and feel at home in their community.

Aspen Heights: A comfortable home for a sustainable future

• In Saskatoon, Eli found a reliable, comfortable home at Aspen Heights. The energy-efficient townhouse stays warm in winter and cool in summer, offering safety, affordability, and peace of mind in a friendly community.

Priscilla's Place: Peace of mind and a place to call home

• After years in unstable housing, Robin finally found the security they needed at Priscilla’s Place. Their bright, well-built apartment offers steady rent, year-round comfort, and the peace of mind to plan for the future.

This series was inspired by National Housing Day and the transformative power of SAH to create lasting, community-driven change.