BRANDON, MANITOBA, April 3, 2007- Mr. Merv Tweed, Member of Parliament for Brandon-Souris, on behalf of the Honourable Monte Solberg, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development, today announced federal homelessness funding of $211,484 for the Samaritan House-Eco Green Roof.
"Canada's New Government is proud to partner with Samaritan House Ministries to support community efforts to help people who are homeless, or at risk of becoming homeless, by providing them a safe and secure shelter," said Mr. Tweed. "By supporting projects like Samaritan House-Eco Green Roof, we help communities make a difference in the lives of our most vulnerable citizens."
Through this project, Samaritan House Ministries Inc. is upgrading and repairing the Samaritan House Food Bank and the Helping Hands Soup Kitchen to make the facilities more energy efficient and to ensure they meet health and safety standards. In addition, a rooftop greenhouse will be developed to grow additional food for the Samaritan House Food Bank and the Helping Hands Soup Kitchen.
"Samaritan House Ministries Inc. provides services essential to citizens living in poverty in Brandon and surrounding communities," said Marla Somersall, Executive Director of Samaritan House Ministries Inc. "This funding will help us reduce our heating and energy costs while we continue to provide thousands of meals and hampers to those in need each year."
Canada's New Government launched the new Homelessness Partnering Strategy on April 1, 2007. It replaces the National Homelessness Initiative.
The new Homelessness Partnering Strategy is providing $269.6 million over two years to help communities across Canada combat homelessness more effectively. The Strategy focuses on a housing-first approach to homelessness, recognizing that housing stability is essential to self-sufficiency and full participation in Canadian society. With its clear goals of improved partnerships, enhanced sustainability and tangible results, the new strategy will provide concrete, meaningful and lasting results for Canadians in need.
For more information on the Government of Canada's new Homelessness Partnering Strategy, visit www.homelessness.gc.ca.
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This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.
For more information (media only):
Pema Lhalungpa
Press Secretary
Office of Minister Solberg
819-994-2482
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and Social Development Canada
819-994-5559
