Emily Siegner joined Habitat for Humanity Prince Edward-Hastings as the Events and Volunteer Coordinator in November 2025. A graduate of Trent University with a Bachelor of Business Administration, Emily has worked in event planning for the past three years. She was drawn to Habitat PEH because of its mission to build strength and stability through affordable home ownership and hopes to help educate the community in that regard as well as the impact Habitat has on local families and the community as a whole.
Rotarian and Past President Bob Burns was very pleased to introduce Emily and Hazzem Koudsi, CEO of Habitat for Humanity. Bob knew Hazzem's dad Al Koudsi, a former member of the Rotary Club of Belleville and now living in Ottawa. With the current Habitat for Humanity project being built next door to Bob's parent's home and animal hospital, it was fitting for him as friend and neighbour to do the introductions. Welcome to both! Hazzem, of course, is also President-Elect of the Rotary Club.
Most of us are aware that housing prices in Ontario have increased by about 80%, while wages have only increased by about 40%, making it increasingly difficult for families to enter the housing market. Almost 50% of Renters and homeowners together are spending more than 30% of their income on housing in Canada and that is considered unaffordable. Since 1985 Habitat for Humanity has partnered with over 5,000 families in Canada. In 2024, over 222 Habitat homes were built in Canada, serving over 171 family members. The organization also completed over 200 repairs on houses in 2024. Habitat Prince Edward Hastings has helped 34 families in our region since 1995.
No Place Like Home village vision, located at 93 Dundas Street will provide 66 unit condominiums offering family flexibility and entry level ownership. Hazzam reviewed the financial parameters and partnerships in the project. Bringing the project to life includes a $8.3M fundraising campaign to close the gap to fund this project.. A collaborative effort to ensure more families in the Quinte Region have safe, affordable places to live. It is anticipated that ground-breaking will happen in the Fall of 2026 with occupancy in June 2028. A large portion of the 66 units are 2 bedroom with one bedroom and 3 bedrooms also available. The home ownership model expects families to contribute to the building of their home by contributing 500 hours of community service either on the build site, in Habitat for Humanity Re-Stores or in the community at large. There are other requirements such as being in need of suitable housing and able to make affordable mortgage payments. There is a lengthy application process in place. Habitat Village isn't just about building homes, it is about building community, fostering stability and creating a generational impact through safe and affordable home ownership.
City Councillor Margaret Seu thanked today's presenters and noted the incredible work that is being done with a strong commitment to the community.