Insights on Nonprofit Housing: A Conversation with Peter Corbyn

In a recent episode of Fundy Tidings on CHCO-TV, host Jay Remer sat down with Peter Corbyn, the Executive Director of the New Brunswick Nonprofit Housing Association (NBNHA). The conversation provided an in-depth look at the challenges and successes within nonprofit housing in New Brunswick, underscoring the essential role community housing plays in supporting low-income households and addressing homelessness.

Established in 1992, the New Brunswick Nonprofit Housing Association represents approximately 170 nonprofit organizations that manage around 6,500 housing units across the province. These units offer affordable accommodation to low-income seniors, families, and individuals who were previously unhoused. Corbyn highlighted the significance of this network, stating, “We represent about 170 nonprofit organizations that own and operate approximately 6,500 nonprofit housing units throughout the province.” 

A major topic of discussion was the affordability of housing for low-income individuals. Corbyn stressed the importance of maintaining low rental rates to support those on fixed incomes, such as seniors. He noted, “Virtually all of our members charge relatively low rent... many of our members offer rents in the $600 to $700 per month range.” In a housing market where prices are escalating, this affordability is critical for individuals with limited financial means.

The conversation also addressed the impact of New Brunswick's rapid population growth on the housing crisis. Corbyn provided a striking example: “The population of New Brunswick grew by 50,000 over 32 years... The next 50,000 came in just three years.” This unprecedented increase has intensified pressure on the housing market, making it increasingly challenging to provide adequate housing for all residents.

A poignant moment in the interview was Corbyn’s anecdote about the transformative effect of nonprofit housing. He shared a story of a young woman residing in a unit managed by Rising Tide, a member organization of the NBNHA. She told him, “This place has changed my life. I’ve got a place to live and a sense of community.” 

The interview also explored the debate between nimbyism (Not In My Backyard) and yimbyism (Yes In My Backyard). Corbyn recounted how community attitudes can shift positively when the benefits of nonprofit housing are visible. He described a renovation project in Moncton, where initial resistance from local residents transformed into support. After the renovation, neighbours who had opposed the project wrote to the organization, stating, “This is the best thing that's happened to our neighbourhood.” This change in perspective illustrates how community housing projects can enhance neighbourhoods and challenge stigmas associated with low-income housing.

As the discussion concluded, Corbyn highlighted the pressing need for new board members to sustain the work of nonprofit housing organizations. Many current board members, who have served since the 1980s, are preparing to retire. Corbyn noted, “Roughly 40% of board members around the province plan to retire in the next one to three years.” This imminent leadership gap underscores the importance of attracting new volunteers to continue the vital work of providing affordable housing.