About Little Falls Co-operative Homes

Little Falls Co-operative Homes (“Little Falls Co-op”) is an accessible, pet-friendly, and family-oriented housing co-operative located in the Town of St. Marys, Ontario. We offer both Market and Geared-to-Income units, providing an inclusive community where members of all backgrounds can thrive.

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Our History

Construction of Little Falls Co-operative Homes began in 1994. As each unit was completed, new members moved in—gradually building the vibrant community we know today. Between September and December 1994, members joined the Co-op in phases, and on January 1, 1995, a ceremony marked the official opening of Little Falls Co-op.

Originally envisioned as three rows of two-storey apartments, the design was later revised to meet new provincial inclusion mandates promoting equitable access to housing. The final layout features two rows of townhouses and a two-storey apartment building, combining comfort, accessibility, and a strong sense of community.

Our goal has always been to provide comfortable, dignified housing that members can take pride in—fostering long-term residency and mutual responsibility. By working together to maintain our homes and operations, members help keep costs affordable and ensure the continued success of our Co-op.

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What Is a Housing Co-operative?

A housing co-operative is a community where residents are both members and decision-makers. Unlike traditional rental housing, a co-op is not owned by a landlord or developer—it is owned and managed collectively by the people who live there.

Each member has a voice and a vote in important decisions, such as electing the Board of Directors, setting policies, and determining how the co-op’s finances are managed. This democratic structure fosters shared responsibility, transparency, and a strong sense of belonging.

Little Falls Co-operative Homes Inc. is controlled by our resident-members, who make decisions together about how to manage our community. Through collaboration and participation, members help shape the environment they live in and ensure that Little Falls Co-op remains a safe, supportive, and affordable place to call home.

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Governance

Little Falls Co-op operates under the Co-operative Corporations Act (R.S.O. 1990, c. C.35) and its Regulation (R.R.O. 1990, Regulation 178), which outline the incorporation, operation, and dissolution of co-operatives in Ontario.

As a housing provider, we also comply with the Housing Services Act, 2011, which establishes standards for Rent-Geared-to-Income (RGI) housing and defines our responsibilities within the municipal housing system.

In addition, Little Falls Co-op is governed by its own By-laws, which reflect these laws while addressing the unique needs of our members and community.