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| Backgrounder(s) & FactSheet(s): | Backgrounder |
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| Backgrounder(s) & FactSheet(s): | Backgrounder |
DUNCAN –
The provincial government and local partners are celebrating the official
groundbreaking of the Cowichan Community Housing Resource Centre, which will
provide 15 emergency shelter beds and 24 transition housing units for adults
with mental health issues and those at risk of homelessness.
“Housing is the first step in a range of supports that people need to lead healthier lives,” said Rich Coleman, Minister of Housing and Social Development. “The Cowichan Community Housing Resource Centre will be this first step for many people, providing safe and stable housing for those who face a multitude of challenges and want to achieve independence.”
The development is part of the Provincial Homelessness Initiative, which integrates support services with housing to help people move beyond temporary shelter to more secure housing, greater self-reliance and appropriate employment. The Vancouver Island Health Authority (VIHA) is supportive of this project that is aligned with one of VIHA’s key priorities to create healthier communities. VIHA will work collaboratively with other agencies to ensure a continuum of care that includes outreach services for those at risk of homelessness.
The development is managed by the Canadian Mental Health Association Cowichan Valley Branch. Job skills, counselling, food security and other programs will be offered to residents and the general community through the society.
“The Cowichan Community Housing Resource Centre will assist those in our community who are at risk of homelessness and need a safe place to stay,” said Christina Martens, executive director of the Canadian Mental Health Association – Cowichan Valley Branch. “The centre provides stable supports for people who want to make positive changes in their lives and encourages self-sufficiency and promotes safe, healthy communities.”
The Province has committed to creating more than 4,000 new housing units under the Provincial Homelessness Initiative. The Province’s budget for shelters and affordable housing is $380 million – more than three times what it was in 2001.
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Contact: |
Darija Tomasic BC Housing 604 456-8845 604 374-4534 (cell) |
Christina Martens CMHA– Cowichan Valley Branch 250 701-7478 Email: cmha-mi@shaw.ca |
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Anya
Nimmon |
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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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