The provincial government is encouraging partners from across Alberta to submit proposals to develop housing for lower-income and homeless citizens. The request for proposals comes as the province is prepared to invest $100 million to build affordable housing. 

The province says a minimum of 660 housing units could be developed, depending on the projects funded.

"As opposed to just managing the problem through shelters we're looking towards permanent housing and actually providing a permanent solution to people who may wind up on the street for whatever reason," said Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs Jonathan Denis.

Carrie Smiley has benefited from affordable housing. About eight years ago, her marriage collapsed. She was a single mom with no place to call home.

"It was tough, like I know I was really upset at the time, not sure what to do where to go."

Her sister offered her a place to stay in her home and eventually, Carrie found affordable housing.

At the time my daughters were seven and three.. I had no money and had just started a job," she said.

Denis says the new funding is part of the premier's commitment to build 11,000 housing units before 2012.

"There is a great deal of need of people that need subsidy or affordable housing," said Carrie.

The cash injection is through the provincial 2011-12 Housing Capital Initiatives grant program.

The deadline for submitting project proposals is July 8. Program details and application forms can be found at www.housing.alberta.ca

Successful applicants are expected to be notified this fall.

With files from Susan Amerongen