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VICTORIA – The Province is asking non-profit housing societies to submit proposals to upgrade approximately 300 non-profit housing units through the new Seniors’ Supportive Housing program, Rich Coleman, Minister responsible for Housing, announced today.
This program follows up on government’s Budget 2007 commitment of $45 million over four years to upgrade or convert up to 750 subsidized housing units to supportive housing. It will allow seniors to “age in place,” providing housing with features to make it easier for seniors and people with disabilities, who do not yet need the full-fledged benefits of assisted living, to live independently.
Renovations are already underway at 11 subsidized housing developments with about 500 housing units. Today’s proposal call for an additional 300 units means close to 800 housing units will be converted.
“That’s about 50 more units than we originally anticipated,” said Coleman. “We’ve found the costs for the 500 units already underway are less than anticipated, so our commitment can be extended to help more seniors live independently.”
The physical improvements include lever door handles and faucets, grab bars, improved lighting in common areas and entrance areas, and a range of other security and safety features. Support services include meal preparation services, housekeeping services, and social and recreational activities.
“The program is an excellent example of a co-operative partnership that supports seniors in remaining independent and living safely and securely in their own homes for as long as possible,” said Karen Stone, executive director of the BC Non-Profit Housing Association.
Non-profit societies and community service agencies that currently operate seniors’ housing developments are invited to respond to the Request for Proposals. The submission deadline is Dec. 6 at 2 p.m.
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The proposal call documents are available at www.bchousing.org/programs/proposals/bc_wide.
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contact: |
Communications Specialist BC Housing 604 456-8895 |
Manager, Public Affairs BC Housing 604 439-4789 |
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For more information on government services or to subscribe to the Province’s news feeds using RSS, visit the Province’s website at www.gov.bc.ca. |
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