Societe du Patrimoine de Montreal
Organization profile published 1981

Publisher:  Societe du Patrimoine de Montreal, Montreal, Canada
Year Published:  1981
Resource Type:  Organization
Cx Number:  CX2239

In May 1979, a contract was signed in Montreal which saw C.M.H.C. (Canada mortgage and Housing Corporation) buy some 700 commercial and residential unites in the downtown area to be turned over to the nearly 2000 residents on a collective, non-profit basis.

Abstract: 
This abstract was published in Connexions Digest in 1981 and 1982:

In May 1979, a contract was signed in Montreal which saw C.M.H.C. (Canada mortgage and Housing Corporation) buy some 700 commercial and residential unites in the downtown area to be turned over to the nearly 2000 residents on a collective, non-profit basis. This act was the direct outcome of a long and often bitter fight between citizens and developers going back to the 1960's.

The contract was signed with S.P.U.M. (Societe du Patrimoine de Montreal) in which CMHC recognized S.P.U.M. as the organization which would hold the properties on an interim basis as they are turned over to residents in the form of co-ops and non-profit housing corporations. Among the goals and objectives of the project are that no resident will have to move because of economic reasons, that properties will be owned and administered on a non-profit basis, and that ultimate control will be in the hands of the residents. Another important goal is to provide for the renovation of all houses, using various government subsidy programs.

One particular model being used to address the housing needs of the elderly in the area is that of an o.s.b.l. (non-profit housing corporation). At present, several community groups, churches and agencies are co-sponsoring such a project at 3555 and 3565 Jeanne Mace Street, an older three story apartment building that will be renovated into fifty-four 11/2 and 21/2 room apartments. A full range of amenities designed for the elderly will be incorporated into the renovations. This initiatives seen as a significant step in providing an alternative to the present trend of the "white painters" (middle class returning to the central city) pushing the elderly out of their homes and neighborhoods.

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This organization no longer exists.