FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Supportive housing making a difference in New Westminster

NEW WESTMINSTER, B.C. – Rhoda Kaellis Residence, a supportive and transitional housing development, is positively changing the lives of people with a history of homelessness since it opened its doors nearly a year ago.

“The Government of Canada is supporting Canadians with their housing needs and is fulfilling its commitment to help those seeking to break free of the cycle of homelessness and poverty,” said Senator Yonah Martin, on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development and Minister Responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). “Our investment here at Rhoda Kaellis Residence is helping to increase the range of housing options available in New Westminster, making a real and lasting difference in this community.”

“For those who call it home, supportive housing developments like Rhoda Kaellis Residence offer affordable housing with onsite support services that provide a gateway to a healthier and more rewarding life,” said Harry Bloy, Minister of State for Multiculturalism. “I would like to thank our partners and especially Lookout Emergency Aid Society for the invaluable work that they do here and at other social housing developments throughout the Lower Mainland.”

Through an amendment to the Canada-British Columbia Affordable Housing Initiative Agreement, the federal government contributed $1.65 million towards the capital costs of this project and an additional contribution of $700,000, through federal homelessness funding. The Province provided financing of over $7 million and is providing annual operational funding of $732,943. The building, owned and managed by Lookout Emergency Aid Society, offers 11 apartments for short-term transitional housing and 13 semi-permanent independent apartments for people with a history of homelessness.

“Lookout has been providing solutions to homelessness for 40 years and we know what it takes to successfully transition people to more stable, healthier lifestyles and homes,” said Karen O'Shannacery, executive director, Lookout Emergency Aid Society. “I would like to thank both the governments of Canada and the Province for investing in Rhoda Kaellis Residence and also the City of New Westminster for supporting the project and helping us to change people’s lives.”