A father in Brandon expressed challenges in finding a suitable and economical home for his expanding family in the largest city in southwestern Manitoba. Phillip Emmerson, living with cerebral palsy, his wife, and their four children, including one-year-old Chloe, reside in a two-bedroom apartment in downtown Brandon. Despite getting married in August 2025, they have been searching for a home that accommodates their needs for a while.
Emmerson emphasized the necessity of a wheelchair-accessible house, stating that despite having support willing to assist with modifications, such as building a ramp, the necessary changes have not been made. Brandon faces a significant housing deficit, with Housing, Infrastructure, and Communities Canada indicating a shortage of around 1,300 units based on current requirements and a 1.9% vacancy rate.
According to Brandon’s Homeless Individuals and Families Information System, families in the city are at a heightened risk of homelessness. The database reported a 10% increase in families experiencing homelessness from January to August compared to the same period in 2025. Emmerson, employed as an education assistant, mentioned their ineligibility for government support programs like Manitoba Housing due to their income level.
Despite applying for new properties in the city, Emmerson shared their struggle in securing callbacks before the available spaces are occupied. Family units are highly sought-after in Brandon, with Shawn Wood, the executive director of the Construction Association of Rural Manitoba, mentioning that the city and developers are striving to meet this demand.
The city has seen a surge in population, with approximately 5,000 new residents between 2001 and 2021, but only around 700 new homes constructed. This growth, coupled with challenges such as labor shortages and escalating construction costs, poses obstacles for catching up with housing demands. The City of Brandon is actively working to address the housing shortage, aiming to build 950 new homes over three years to cater to various housing needs within the community.
Shannon Saltarelli, the community housing and wellness co-ordinator, highlighted the city’s efforts to accelerate housing development by securing funds, enhancing density, and streamlining regulations for developments. Saltarelli emphasized the importance of housing advocacy to bridge existing gaps and ensure the community’s needs are met.
Emmerson continues his quest for a suitable home, advocating for increased collaboration between different government levels to facilitate the construction of affordable homes for families like his. Rental prices in Brandon range from just over $1,500 to over $2,000 monthly for three- to four-bedroom units, posing financial challenges for many families. Emmerson stressed the importance of adequate space for children to play and a comfortable living environment for all family members.