The provincial and federal governments announced on Monday June 5, 2023, that a new three-storey micro-suite apartment building has opened. The facility is in the Centennial neighbourhood and caters to those with mental health or addictions issues who are experiencing or at risk of experiencing homelessness.
The Ross Ellen complex includes 47 micro-suites with 15 of them accessible for people with disabilities, a commercial kitchen, a common dining room, a living room, a game room, a tv area and a round room for indigenous cultural activities. The is an outdoor patio and community garden in a fenced area behind the building.
Support staff will be onsite around the clock 365 days per year. Residents don’t need to live a sober lifestyle but supervised supports will be available for those seeking recovery from addictions.
“Addressing the complex challenge of homelessness calls for innovative approaches that address its root causes in a holistic way,” said Manitoba Families Minister Rochelle Squires. “We have been pleased to collaborate with our colleagues in the federal and municipal governments, as well as our partners in the private sector, on this important initiative.”
“Home First Winnipeg and the Pollard family are very pleased to be able to open these 47 homes for people in Winnipeg coming out of homelessness. We want to thank everyone who helped us achieve this, and in particular the provincial and federal governments who provided valuable funding,” said John Pollard, Home First Winnipeg. “ Our model for a fully supported, housing first approach is relatively new to Winnipeg but we are confident it can be successful in providing those at risk of homelessness a safe, permanent place to call home.”
The Pollard Family donated $4.6 million to the project, The federal and provincial governments provided more than $1.1 Million. An additional $800,000 was provided through the Shared Health Priorities bilateral agreement. The Government of Canada has provided $2.2 million through the National Housing Co-Investment Fund (NHCF), a key pillar of the National Housing Strategy, as a forgivable loan in support of this project.
Manitoba will also be providing ongoing funding through an annual operating commitment.
The federal government also provided a capital grant of $100,000 through Reaching Home: Canada’s Homelessness Strategy and the City of Winnipeg is providing a capital grant of $100,000.
