Overview
The Centre for Studies on Poverty and Social Citizenship (CSPSC) at Carleton School of Social Work is dedicated to advancing research, policy dialogue, and community engagement on issues of poverty, social justice, and citizenship. As part of this mission, the CSPSC is hosting a Housing Affordability Symposium on March 24, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
This event will convene community advocates, researchers, policymakers, and individuals with lived experience to confront the housing affordability crisis in Ottawa and beyond. Through keynote presentations, panel discussions, and collaborative dialogues, the symposium will highlight innovative solutions and elevate housing as a fundamental social right.
The Background
Our cause is to advance housing justice and social equity by supporting the Housing Affordability Symposium hosted by the Centre for Studies on Poverty and Social Citizenship (CSPSC). At a time when rising rents and housing insecurity affect students, families, and entire communities, we are creating a platform for dialogue, policy innovation, and community-led solutions. This campaign champions the belief that stable, affordable housing is a cornerstone of dignity, health, and opportunity. By uniting scholars, community leaders, tenant advocates, and policymakers, we aim to spark meaningful action that addresses systemic inequities in housing access, starting here in Ottawa.
The Rollout
Funds raised will support:
- Community Participation: Travel stipends and support to ensure local community organizations and members can actively participate.
- Speaker Honoraria: Fair compensation for grassroots advocates, frontline workers, and scholars who share their expertise.
- Student Honoraria: Support for students involved in event planning, organization, and post-event reporting.
- Accessibility & Inclusion: Interpretation services, accessible materials, and inclusive event design to ensure full participation.
- Knowledge Sharing: Creation of a public policy brief, digital resources, and a post-event report to extend impact beyond the symposium.
The Impact
A symposium that goes beyond conversation to mobilize action and policy change. With your support, we aim to:
- Strengthen collaboration between universities and community organizations
- Amplify the voices of those most affected by housing insecurity
- Translate research and lived experience into meaningful advocacy
- Provide students with opportunities to develop skills in event organizing, post-report writing and gain insight into the topic of Housing and hopefully ignite research interest in the topic