For immediate release November 21, 2022

Lanark County launches Yes In My Back Yard Awareness Week

The week of Nov. 21 to 25 is Yes In My Back Yard (YIMBY) Awareness Week in Lanark County, which ties in with National Housing Day on Nov. 22.

YIMBY is the opposite of NIMBY (Not In My Back Yard) and aims to reduce resistance in neighbourhoods to new and varied housing development to encourage a range of choices, have a greater understanding of the social and economic benefits to diversified communities, and increase awareness in general about local housing issues and the needs of all community members.

“The YIMBY movement brings many stakeholders together for positive change,” said Shawna Stone, Housing Services Manager, “It is a way for us to highlight the importance of advocating for affordable housing and to push forward with the tools the county has been developing around local planning, training and increased access to a range of affordable housing and supports.”

To mark YIMBY Awareness Week, Lanark County Housing Services partnered with local day cares on a poster project to help illustrate the importance of diversified housing. “We asked children what they think neighbourhoods and communities should look like,” Brooke Coutts, Homelessness Services Coordinator, added. “The posters showed a lot of diversity and inclusion – welcoming a wide range of housing options throughout our communities.”

The week kicks off with the official proclamation of National Housing Day by Lanark County Council. “The lack of safe and affordable housing in Lanark County impacts the well-being of all residents, including our most vulnerable and low-income households, and limits their ability to fully participate in our community,” the proclamation states.

Nov. 22 is designated by the federal government as National Housing Day to recognize the work of housing partners to improve access to housing for everyone in Canada. The goal is to raise awareness about local housing issues. The proclamation notes the pandemic has been a reminder that some of the most vulnerable populations in the community have been the hardest hit. “This day is an opportunity to reflect on the work that still needs to be done. The county is committed to working with federal and provincial governments, as well as private and non-profit housing providers, to deliver positive housing outcomes for our residents.”

As part of YIMBY Awareness Week, Lanark County Housing Services is offering the free virtual information sessions below. Registration is not required.