How women are driving the future of co-operative housing

By numbers, women are driving the future of co-operative housing.

Women are paving the way for a more equitable housing future because too many know firsthand what it’s like to struggle for affordable, secure housing.

This hashtag#InternationalWomen’sDay, we celebrate the women leading the charge in co-operative housing.

Women, especially those over 55, are among the fastest-growing groups facing housing insecurity. With lower lifetime earnings and rising housing costs, many are being priced out of safe and stable homes.

At CEHL, we are committed to changing that. Co-op housing isn’t just about providing homes—it’s about empowerment. Through study grants, mentorships, and leadership opportunities, we support women in having a voice and a seat at the table.

And the numbers speak for themselves. Women make up:

🏡 78% of our 500+ co-op board directors are women – leading their communities and shaping their housing futures.

🏡 6 of our 11 CEHL Board Directors

🏡 61% of all CEHL staff are women, including a 50/50 split at the executive level.

This International Women’s Day, we’re proud to champion women’s leadership in housing – because communities thrive when women thrive.

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Mel Abrams

Co-op Elected Director

Melanie, a CEHL co-operative member since 2021, is an experienced executive support professional with a background in government, Aboriginal affairs, and the not-for-profit sector. With over 20 years of experience in administration, stakeholder coordination, and cooperative governance, she has supported leaders across sectors and is passionate about community-led housing, inclusion, and social justice.