The B.C. government is providing approximately $150,000 to install new elevator upgrades at the Fraser Village senior’s residence in Quesnel.

The elevator upgrades will ensure that entry to the building, which is operated by the Fraser Village Homes Society, will be fully accessible to everyone who wants to participate in activities and services. Work is scheduled to begin in early 2015.

Last year, the B.C. government invested over $2 million to provide subsidized housing and rent supplements for more than 280 households in Quesnel. This includes providing support for more than 130 senior households.

Provincially, more than 51,000 seniors’ households across B.C. benefit from a range of housing options.

Quotes:

Coralee Oakes, MLA for Cariboo North, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development -

“I am very pleased to see this important upgrade taking place. I have spent a number of months working with the Fraser Village Society to ensure that the residents have accessible living.”

“These changes will allow residents who have or might experience mobility issues to have appropriate access to their homes and facilitate the work of our local health-care professionals. I appreciate the support of Minister Coleman and applaud BC Housing for making this investment and supporting seniors where they live."

Rich Coleman, Minister of Natural Gas Development and Minister Responsible for Housing -

“Ensuring that seniors in Quesnel can take full advantage of the facilities supported by the province and the community is important. This funding will benefit the health of all those who use the building.”

Quick Facts:

• Since 2001, the B.C. government has invested $4 billion to provide affordable housing for low-income individuals, seniors and families.
• This year, nearly 100,000 B.C. households will benefit from provincial social housing programs and services.
• Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters (SAFER) provides rental supplements to more than 17,000 low-income seniors’ households. In 2014 the program was enhanced to better meet the needs of low-income seniors. With the new enhanced benefit, the average monthly payment is expected to increase from approximately $150 to $190 per month.

Learn More:

For more information on provincial housing options, programs and supports for seniors in B.C., please visit: http://www.housingmattersbc.ca/docs/fs_Seniors_Housing.pdf

Media Contacts:

Elaine McKay
BC Housing
778 452-6476