Living in a housing co-operative is different from renting or owning. At Abiwin, residents are also members — sharing responsibility for the care, governance, and long-term well-being of the community.
This page outlines what to expect if you are interested in applying for membership at Abiwin.
Is Co-operative Living Right for You?
Members of Abiwin are more than tenants. They are active participants in a shared community.
Co-operative living may be a good fit if you:
- Value stable, long-term housing
- Are comfortable participating in meetings and decision-making
- Respect diversity and community living
- Are willing to contribute time and care to the co-op
- Support the principles of fairness, inclusion, and mutual responsibility
Who Can Apply?
Abiwin welcomes applications from individuals and households who are:
- 16 years of age or older
- Willing to live cooperatively and respectfully
- Able to meet housing charges or qualify for available subsidies
- Committed to maintaining their home and shared spaces
- Interested in living in a diverse, inclusive community
Abiwin does not discriminate on the basis of race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, family status, disability, or any other ground protected by law.
Our Housing
Abiwin offers 90 homes ranging from one- to four-bedroom units, including wheelchair-accessible units.
Our homes are located in Centretown, within walking distance of grocery stores, public transit, parks, recreation centres, and downtown services.
Housing charges vary depending on unit size and household income. A portion of Abiwin’s homes are supported through rent-geared-to-income subsidies, subject to eligibility and availability.
Please note: Availability of units and subsidies varies, and wait times may apply. You must be an active member for at least 1 year before you can add your name to the waitlist for a subsidy.
The Membership Application Process
Abiwin follows a clear and transparent membership process, overseen by our Member Welcome Committee—a group of dedicated volunteers who live right here in our co-op. Their role is to help you understand the unique benefits and responsibilities of co-operative living. All information provided during this process is handled with the utmost care and kept strictly confidential.
Step 1: Submit an Application
Applicants submit:
- A completed membership application form
- Income verification documents
- A $20 application fee per adult (to cover administrative costs)
Only complete applications are processed. Applications are generally considered on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to eligibility requirements.
Step 2: Review and Interview
The co-op will:
- Review the application for completeness
- Conduct reference and credit checks
- Invite applicants for an interview
Following the interview, the co-op will notify applicants of the decision.
Step 3: Unit Offer and Move-In
When a suitable unit becomes available, applicants on the waiting list are contacted.
If a unit is accepted:
- A move-in date is agreed upon
- An Occupancy Agreement is signed
Preparing for Your Interview
To help you prepare for your meeting with the Member Welcome Committee, we encourage you to think about these core co-op themes in advance:
- • Participation: How would you like to contribute your skills (gardening, committees, events) to the community?
- • Co-op Knowledge: What draws you to the co-operative model specifically?
- • Community Living: How do you approach resolving concerns with neighbours in a respectful way?
- • Long-term Commitment: Are you looking for a stable, long-term community to grow with?
Note: The interview is a two-way conversation. We encourage you to bring your own questions for us, too!
Families, Pets, and Community Life
Abiwin values community life in all its forms. Families with children and members with pets are an integral part of the community, and shared spaces are shaped with respect for neighbours of all ages and abilities.
Specific policies related to pets, occupancy, and household composition are provided to members during the application and onboarding process.
Accessibility
Abiwin is committed to improving accessibility across its homes and community spaces. Accessible units are prioritized for members who require them, and we continually seek ways to remove barriers to participation within the co-op.
Application Forms
Membership application forms are available for download below.
Download Membership Application Form (PDF)
(Forms will be reviewed and updated periodically)
Questions?
We understand that applying for housing is a significant step.
If you have questions about the application process, information sessions, or housing at Abiwin, please contact the co-op office.