NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release 2008HSD0041-001246 Aug. 19, 2008	Ministry of Housing and Social Development
$1.5 MILLION SENIORS' SUPPORTIVE HOUSING OPENS IN DELTA

DELTA – Margaret Vidal Court is now open, after the completion of renovations worth more than $1.5 million at the 45-unit supportive housing development for low-income seniors, announced Val Roddick, MLA for Delta South.

 

            “Through the Seniors’ Supportive Housing program, the Province is creating more affordable options for seniors who don’t need assisted living but may need extra help with services like housekeeping and meals,” said Roddick. “Margaret Vidal Court will allow seniors in Delta to remain independent in their communities for as long as possible.”

 

            Renovations began in January 2008 through the Seniors’ Supportive Housing program, which provides funding to modify rental housing developments for low-income seniors and people with disabilities. Renovations, for example, included low-threshold showers to replace bathtubs and grab bars for showers and toilets. Enhanced safety features included improved lighting for entrances and corridors, an upgraded fire alarm system and swing-free door closers.

 

            The program also introduces on-site support services for tenants, including 24-hour response, light housekeeping, meals, laundry service for bedding and linens, and social and recreational activities. The Kinsmen Retirement Centre Association will provide the support services and manage Margaret Vidal Court, located at 5492 – 11^th Ave in Delta.

 

            “There is a need for more affordable housing and different levels of care options for seniors all across the province, including right here in the Lower Mainland,” said Brian Kines, CEO of the Kinsmen Retirement Centre. “We are pleased to offer our seniors the opportunity to remain in the community as their care needs change, close to family and friends.”

 

            Since 1983, the Kinsmen Retirement Centre has provided seniors with a wide range of programs, including health-care, recreational and social programs. The non-profit society is made up of 101 intermediate care home beds, 142 subsidized independent living apartments, 68 assisted living suites, an adult day centre and a 650-member recreation centre, including Delta ElderCollege.

 

            In Budget 2007, the Province committed $45 million over four years to upgrade or convert 750 subsidized housing units to supportive housing through the Seniors’ Supportive Housing program – a goal the Province has exceeded. The program is part of the Province’s annual investment of more than $400 million a year in affordable housing and shelters – more than three times as much as in 2001.

 

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Media contact:	Darija Tomasic BC Housing 604 456-8845 604 374-4534 (cell)	Brian Kines, CEO Kinsmen Retirement Centre 604 943-0155 ext. 223
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