The B.C. government is renewing its commitment to funding the construction and operations of a supportive housing development on land provided by the City of Abbotsford.

Earlier this fall, the city approved the rezoning of properties on Gladys Ave. to facilitate the building of a 20-unit development for men who are homeless or at-risk of homelessness. The Province has now agreed to provide the $2.4 million in capital costs, as well as annual operating costs, to the project which will be operated by the Abbotsford Community Services Society.

In 2008, the Province and the City of Abbotsford signed an agreement to build new supportive housing for people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Two developments, featuring a total of 72 units (Christine Lamb Residence and George Schmidt Centre), are now operating successfully. Construction on this third development is expected to begin next fall.

Quotes:

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

“The Province recognizes that supportive housing provides a chance for individuals who were homeless to stabilize and be connected to community services as they work to address their personal issues. This renewed partnership with the City of Abbotsford will make this a reality for people for years to come.”

Mayor Henry Braun, City of Abbotsford -

“The City of Abbotsford is grateful to the Government of B.C. and to Abbotsford Community Services for their ongoing support for our community through the renewal of this important partnership. Abbotsford City Council is committed to ensuring that we continue to support and encourage opportunities and projects that make a difference in the lives of those in greatest need in our community.”

Rod Santiago, executive director, Abbotsford Community Services -

"We are grateful to have the opportunity to be part of this development that will change of lives of individuals in our community. It has taken the efforts of many people in Abbotsford to make housing first a reality and Abbotsford Community Services is thankful for the support we have received.”

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.
• Last year, the B.C. government invested over $6.8 million to provide subsidized housing and rent supplements for more than 1,800 households in Abbotsford. This includes providing support for more than 960 senior households and over 450 family households.

Learn More:

For more information on provincial affordable housing programs and efforts to end homelessness in B.C., please visit: www.housingmattersbc.ca/factsheets.html and www.bchousing.org

Find out more about the Province’s housing investments in the Fraser Valley: www.housingmattersbc.ca/docs/fs_Fraser_Region.pdf

Media Contacts:

Elaine McKay
BC Housing
778 452-6476