$14.95M HOUSING INVESTMENT TO CREATE 96 JOBS IN NANAIMO

NANAIMO – The Province is investing $14.95 million for two supportive housing developments that will help break the cycle of homelessness and create 96 jobs within the City of Nanaimo, announced Housing and Social Development Minister Rich Coleman.

“These housing developments will provide new, affordable housing for people in Nanaimo who are most in need, with the added benefit of creating employment at a time when we are facing some economic challenges,” said Coleman. “Both housing developments will make a significant contribution to help us reduce homelessness in this community.”

The housing developments are:

· 40 units of apartment-style housing at 437-445 Wesley Rd. Owned by the City of Nanaimo and located downtown, the site is close to a range of services and resources. The development may include bachelor suites for homeless singles and people in need of higher levels of support services.

· 10 units of housing at 477 10th St. Owned by the Tillicum Lelum Aboriginal Friendship Centre, this property will be developed into an innovative housing development for youth and elders.

“Both of these developments will address the unique needs of homeless people in our community, helping them to gain the skills and support they need to leave the streets and build a good life for themselves,” said Ron Cantelon, Minister of Agriculture and Lands and MLA for Nanaimo-Parksville.

Construction is scheduled to start at the 10^th St. property in September 2009 and the Wesley Rd. property in March 2010. Both properties are part of an agreement signed between the Province and the City of Nanaimo in November 2008.

“Increasing supportive housing in Nanaimo will make this city more socially active in providing appropriate housing for those who need it most,” said John Ruttan, mayor of the City of Nanaimo. “Through partnerships with the Province and community organizations we will be providing much needed services for members of this community.”

These projects are part of an overall $14-billion capital infrastructure program supported by the Province that will create up to 88,000 jobs and help build vital public infrastructure in every region of B.C.

“We work to promote justice, fairness and equality for Aboriginal people through a holistic approach to programming and services,” said Grace Elliott, executive director of Tillicum Lelum Aboriginal Friendship Centre. “When complete, this development will help us improve the quality of life for Aboriginal people in an urban environment by providing affordable housing for young adults and elders so they can live safe, healthy lives.”

Through Housing Matters BC, Budget 2009 increased the amount the Province invests in affordable housing and shelters to more than $469 million a year, more than four times as much as in 2001.

‘Breaking the Cycle of Homelessness’ is a website providing a comprehensive and detailed look at provincial programs and services to address homelessness. Visit www.bchousing.org/breakingthecycle for more information

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Media contact:	Darija Tomasic BC Housing 604 456-8845

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