Money Dates | Canadian Money Brief What's Paid, Due or Changing This Week Week of Monday, November 16, 2026 Three dates matter this week: a big inflation report on Monday, then two benefit payments on Thursday and Friday. Here is the week, plus what is coming over the next five weeks. This Week: Nov 16 to 22 Date What What to know Mon, Nov 16 8:30 am ET October inflation report (CPI) Statistics Canada's CPI for October. September came in at 3.1%, up from 3.0% in August. The Bank of Canada watches this before its Dec 9 decision. Thu, Nov 19 Canada Disability Benefit Up to $204.20 a month. Paid on the third Thursday of each month. Fri, Nov 20 Canada Child Benefit (CCB) Up to $679.75 a month for each child under 6 and $573.58 for each child aged 6 to 17, for families under the income threshold. Not this week: CPP and OAS (Nov 26). The Groceries and Essentials Benefit, formerly the GST/HST credit, is not paid again until Jan 5, 2027. The Ontario Trillium Benefit was paid Nov 10....
Ottawa, the vibrant capital city of Canada, is stepping up its game to address two pressing challenges simultaneously: climate change and the affordability crisis. The recently launched “Better Homes” program aims to empower homeowners to retrofit their dwellings, making them more environmentally friendly while easing financial burdens.
The Better Homes Program: What You Need to Know
Interest-Free Loans: Ottawa homeowners can now apply for low-interest loans to fund home retrofits. These upgrades include replacing windows, adding insulation, installing heat pumps, or setting up electric vehicle chargers. The loan amount is tied to the home’s value, allowing borrowers to access up to 10% of their property’s value, capped at $125,000.
Long-Term Repayment: The loans are repaid over a 20-year period through property tax bills. This innovative approach ensures that the financial burden aligns with the benefits gained from energy-efficient improvements.
Green Transition: Residential buildings contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. By focusing on heating, cooling, and electrifying homes and office spaces, Ottawa aims to reduce its carbon footprint. The Better Homes program encourages homeowners to embrace greener alternatives.
Expert Guidance: The City of Ottawa has partnered with the environmental non-profit EnviroCentre to offer free energy retrofit planners to interested homeowners. These experts guide residents through the retrofit process, ensuring effective implementation.
Why It Matters
Climate Action: Retrofitting homes directly impacts Ottawa’s emissions. By enhancing energy efficiency, we move closer to achieving the city’s ambitious goal of net-zero emissions by 2050.
Affordability: The Better Homes program recognizes that affordability and sustainability go hand in hand. It empowers homeowners to make cost-effective changes that benefit both their wallets and the planet.
Community Engagement: Educating diverse demographics about available support is crucial. City staff play a pivotal role in bridging this gap and ensuring that every homeowner can participate.
As Ottawa pioneers this initiative, it sets an example for other cities grappling with similar challenges. The Better Homes program proves that tackling climate change need not come at the expense of affordability—it’s a win-win for all.
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