Clients of Shelter Nova Scotia are benefiting from an investment in new housing by the provincial and federal governments.
Called The Rebuilding, the apartment building helps men make the transition from shelter living to community living.
Nineteen men formerly residing at Metro Turning Point will have the opportunity for a fresh start in their own rental apartment, complete with individualized support.
Joanne Bernard, Minister of Community Services and Peter MacKay, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, on behalf of the Candice Bergen, Minister of State (Social Development), visited the new apartment complex today, Nov. 18, to recognize the continued commitment of Shelter Nova Scotia to help those in need of housing solutions in Halifax.
“This is a unique and inspirational housing option that will help more Nova Scotians in need begin new lives,” said Ms. Bernard. “This partnership helps us build stronger, more vibrant and inclusive communities, create jobs, and grow our economy which in turn makes for a stronger, more prosperous province.”
Through Affordable Housing programs, the federal and provincial governments provided $475,000 to help Shelter Nova Scotia develop this project. This investment will help ensure vulnerable individuals can access the housing and services they need.
Since 2003, the province, in partnership with the federal government, has created or preserved over 1,900 affordable homes in Nova Scotia.
“Government is giving a hand up to vulnerable Canadians to help them meet certain basic needs and break free from the cycle of homelessness and poverty. We are pleased to support Shelter Nova Scotia in its efforts to find local solutions to local problems,” said Mr. MacKay. “By partnering with local organizations to provide essential services to people in need, we are doing our part to prevent and address homelessness in Halifax.”
Shelter Nova Scotia received over $1.24 million to build an apartment complex with 19 fully furnished units. These units provide homeless men with safe and affordable housing and better access to community-based supports and services. The building is also designed to accommodate retail businesses to help provide income and improve the sustainability of the project.
“Our supportive housing apartment building for men transitioning from shelter back to community has proven to be a success,” said Don Spicer, executive director of Shelter Nova Scotia. “This building would never have materialized without the generous support of the government of Canada.”
“I am 50 years-old,” said one tenant of Rebuilding, who asked not to be named. “Now I have my own place I can concentrate on learning to read and write.”
The province, through the Department of Community Services and Housing Nova Scotia, helps Nova Scotians secure affordable housing that meets their needs. More information on Housing Nova Scotia is available at www.housingns.ca . For more information on the Department of Community Services visit www.novascotia.ca/coms .
The government of Canada’s Economic Action Plan 2013 committed $119 million per year over five years for the Homelessness Partnering Strategy using a “housing first” approach as an effective way to reduce homelessness.
Source: Release