This release was issued under a previous government.

The Government of Alberta will move up to 65 housing units to Fort McMurray from Slave Lake beginning in early October to alleviate housing pressures as families rebuild their homes.

A survey conducted in July and August indicated a need for three- and four-bedroom housing for families who cannot occupy their homes.

“Ensuring that families have a safe place to call home is key part of restoring the community of Fort McMurray. This interim housing is a crucial step towards ensuring those who lost their homes have a safe place to stay while they rebuild and recover.”

Danielle Larivee, Vice-Chair of Alberta’s Wood Buffalo Ministerial Recovery Task Force and Minister of Municipal Affairs

The Alberta government is focusing on providing housing to families, and the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo is working on options to meet the needs of residents who need one or two bedrooms.

A demonstration home will be set up on Sept. 9 at the Youth Assessment Centre at 180 Mackenzie Blvd, where residents can apply for the units. Families in need of units with three or more bedrooms are eligible to apply. Market rents will be charged. Families will move into the units in phases starting in mid-to-late October.

Applications for interim housing will be available through the Wood Buffalo Housing and Development Corporation starting Sept. 9. Residents currently residing in Fort McMurray will need to apply in person at the demonstration home. Residents living outside the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo who are unable to apply in person can contact the Wood Buffalo Housing and Development Corporation once the application process begins.

The temporary housing units will be located in Parsons Creek and will be available for up to two years as the rebuilding process continues in Wood Buffalo. Housing needs of Fort McMurray residents will continue to be assessed to determine whether additional units are required.