The Rapid Housing Initiative (RHI) is a federal program launched in 2020 to quickly create affordable housing for vulnerable Canadians, including those experiencing homelessness. The program provides funding to municipalities, provinces, Indigenous organizations, and non-profits to build new affordable housing units or acquire existing buildings for conversion. Unlike traditional housing programs with lengthy approval processes, RHI was designed for speed—projects must be completed within specified timelines. The program targets populations with urgent housing needs including homeless individuals, women and children fleeing domestic violence, seniors, Indigenous peoples, and people with disabilities. Multiple rounds of RHI funding have been announced.