The Manitoba government has announced a significant new project aimed at addressing the housing needs in the province. Housing, Addictions, and Homelessness Minister Bernadette Smith unveiled the plan today, which includes capital funding, rent supplements, and in-kind contributions to support the redevelopment of 575 Balmoral.
“Our government is delighted to back the redevelopment of 575 Balmoral, which will cater to some of the most urgent housing needs of First Nations youth in Winnipeg,” said Smith. “Our joint efforts are centered on supporting youth and families with young children who are at risk of homelessness.”
The Manitoba government is donating the land to the Winnipeg Housing Rehabilitation Corporation (WHRC), which will receive the property and buildings located at 575 Balmoral St. and up to $2.2 million in capital funding for its redevelopment. This will include the construction of a new 30-unit building. The government is also providing approximately $577,000 annually to ensure all units can be rented on a rent-geared-to-income basis and that wraparound supports can be provided by project partners.
James Heinrichs, Executive Director of the Winnipeg Housing and Renewal Corporation, expressed his organization’s honor at being chosen to redevelop 575 Balmoral. “This project will provide a home and hope for one of our most vulnerable populations, youth at risk of homelessness,” said Heinrichs.
The WHRC will partner with the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs’ First Nations Family Advocate Office and Spence Neighbourhood Association’s Youth Homelessness Program to provide housing and wraparound supports to youth exiting the child welfare system and to expectant parents at risk of Child and Family Services involvement.
Grand Chief Cathy Merrick of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs highlighted the historic partnership, stating, “Our partnership is a testament to what can be achieved when we come together with a common purpose – to uplift and support the next generation.”
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