YWCA OPENS DOORS TO EXPANDED AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND RENOVATED WOMEN'S SHELTER

Today there are 19 new affordable rental housing spaces at the Regina Young Women's Christian Association (YWCA) after the completion of a $2.5 million project funded by the governments of Canada and Saskatchewan and the City of Regina.

The re-opening of YWCA project in downtown Regina adds to an existing 35 spaces that were renovated and upgraded as part of this project. These upgrades enhance the building's health and safety standards, increase accessibility to persons with disabilities, and create the only wheelchair accessible domestic crisis shelter for women and children in Regina. These renovations also complement improvements to the YWCA's daycare facilities.

This project is an example of HomeFirst, the provincial government's housing strategy. Funding is provided through the Centenary Affordable Housing Program (CAHP), the Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program (RRAP) and the Shelter Enhancement Program (SEP). CAHP is contributing approximately $355,000 and SEP provides $342,000, while RRAP funding totals approximately $537,000. Additionally, Human Resources Skills Development Canada has contributed $637,000 under its Supporting Community Partnership Initiative. The remainder of funding comes from other private and public sources and donations.

"Today's celebration is about working with local groups and organizations to help Regina women find safe and affordable housing," said the Honourable Ralph Goodale, Federal Minister of Finance on behalf of the Honourable Joseph Fontana, Minister of Labour and Housing. "The success and sustainability of our cities begins with ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents."

"These 19 new, safe and affordable spaces are made possible by our HomeFirst housing strategy," Community Resources and Employment Minister Joanne Crofford said. "We share the YWCA's vision, assisting women to build personal and financial independence with the security of a place to call home."

"We are building a city that is safe and affordable for all our residents," Regina Mayor Pat Fiacco said. "Today's grand re-opening allows us to recognize and support the work of our local organizations in helping create safe, healthy and accessible housing opportunities for women in Regina's downtown core."

"Today marks a milestone for the YWCA Regina," YWCA Regina President Tamara Stocker said. "With the completion of these renovations, the YWCA embarks on a new vision, providing a healthier, safer and more respectful environment for our clients and patrons. We gather today to celebrate the commitment of the community that has supported our work in responding to the diverse needs of women and their families."

CAHP is funded under the Canada-Saskatchewan Affordable Housing Agreement. It provides $22.9 million in federal funding for affordable housing, matched by Saskatchewan, municipalities and other parties. With these matching contributions, a total of $45.9 million over five years will be available for affordable housing. The aim of the RRAP is to enhance and improve existing low income housing up to acceptable health and safety standards, while SEP provides funding to enhance shelters for women and children who are victims of family violence. RRAP and SEP are cost-shared on a 75/25 basis between the federal and provincial governments.

The National Homelessness Initiative was established in 1999 to help communities respond to the needs of homeless people, and those at risk of becoming homeless. Since it was launched, the Government of Canada has invested over $13 million through more than 70 projects in Saskatchewan alone.

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For More Information, Contact:

Terry Lazarou Community Resources and Employment Regina Phone: (306) 787-8689	Jason Cobb Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation Calgary Phone: (403) 515-2903
Bob Bjerke City of Regina Regina Phone: (306) 777-7533	Debbie Polischuk YWCA of Regina Regina Phone: (306) 525-2141