Single mothers and their children in need of safe, supportive housing in the Tri-Cities have increased housing options with today's official opening of Como Lake Gardens.

The newly-built four-storey building, located at 528 Como Lake Ave. in Coquitlam, provides 30 affordable and supportive apartments for single mothers and their children. The building also includes common amenity space, play areas for children and meeting space to allow for outreach and support services.

The total cost of Como Lake Gardens is approximately $10.1 million. The government of B.C. provided $7.3 million and will provide an annual operating subsidy of $136,961. The City of Coquitlam provided the land, valued at approximately $1.8 million. YWCA Metro Vancouver provided equity of approximately $1 million through its supporters.

Como Lake Gardens is built to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold standards and is managed and operated by YWCA Metro Vancouver.

Quotes:

Douglas Horne, MLA for Coquitlam-Burke Mountain -

"Como Lake Gardens is a shining example of how the B.C. government is partnering with other levels of government, as well as community partners, to create real, tangible solutions to provide affordable, supportive housing for families in need. Already 30 families have a chance for a whole new path in life - and many more families will have their lives changed by Como Lake Gardens in the future. This is a proud moment for our community."

Mayor Richard Stewart, City of

"Coquitlam is a wonderful community where people work hard to support our most vulnerable neighbours. Como Lake Gardens represents the kinds of things we can accomplish when different levels of government collaborate together and with community partners to bring housing solutions to those who need them."

Janet Austin, CEO, YWCA Metro Vancouver -

"After identifying a need for supportive housing in Coquitlam, we were thrilled to have the generous support of the government of BC, the City of Coquitlam and many YWCA donors, who helped us develop Como Lake Gardens, a housing community that supports women and children. For single mothers and their children, safe, affordable housing is a key factor in building stable and secure lives. In addition to housing, the residents of Como Lake Gardens will have access to a range of integrated YWCA services that enable them to transition out of poverty and move closer to economic independence".

Quick Facts:

• Since 2001, the B.C. government has invested $3.2 billion to provide affordable housing for low income individuals, seniors and families. This year, more than 97,000 B.C. households will benefit from provincial social housing programs and services.

• In 2011-12, the B.C. government invested approximately $5.9 million to provide subsidized housing and rent supplements for more than 2,000 households in Coquitlam.

• The Families First Agenda for British Columbia provides information about how government supports families throughout the province. It describes a range of established programs and some new ideas to help make life more affordable, support vulnerable families and keep communities safe. To read the agenda, share your ideas or provide feedback, visit: http://www.familiesfirstbc.ca/

• YWCA Metro Vancouver is a registered charity providing a range of integrated services for women and their families, and those seeking to improve the quality of their lives. From early learning and care to housing, health and fitness, employment services and leadership, YWCA Metro Vancouver touches lives in our communities.

Contacts:

Seumas Gordon
BC Housing
604 439-4789
604 417-5791 (cell)

Carl Johannsen
Manager, Community Planning
City of Coquitlam
604 927-3403