Intergenerational apartment building opens in Calgary’s northwest

The mixed model is aimed at reducing social isolation, promoting health, and enhancing the well-being of both populations.

A new apartment building in Calgary’s northwest will provide young, Indigenous single mothers, children, and seniors stable, safe, affordable housing and community supports.

HomeSpace Society opened Hope Heights on Tuesday, a four-storey building at 117 12 Avenue NW with 35 one-bedroom rental units.

Building residents will have access to on-site services provided by Highbanks Society and McMan Youth, Family and Community Services of Calgary.

The intergenerational housing model fosters a mentorship community where seniors mentor youth on Indigenous traditions and life skills while youth support seniors with companionship and daily living tasks, the organization says.

The mixed model is aimed at reducing social isolation, promoting health, and enhancing the well-being of both populations.

Hope Heights received $7.3 million in funding from the federal government, $2.1 million from the province, and nearly $873,000 from the city. Calgary builder Hopewell also made a donation of $1.3 million.