WINNIPEG, MANITOBA, June 29, 2007 — Men, women, and families in search of a warm bed and a hot shower can find a safe haven at Siloam Mission's new emergency shelter, Hannah's Place. The project received funding through the Winnipeg Housing and Homelessness Initiative (WHHI), a partnership of the federal, provincial and municipal governments.
The Honourable Vic Toews, President of the Treasury Board, on behalf of the Honourable Monte Solberg, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development Canada; Family Services and Housing Minister Gord Mackintosh; and City of Winnipeg Deputy Mayor Brenda Leipsic, on behalf of Winnipeg Mayor Sam Katz, officially opened the shelter today.
"Canada's New Government is delivering on its commitment to help those who are homeless and/or at risk of becoming homeless," said Minister Toews. "Our investment will make a real difference in the lives of the homeless in Winnipeg."
"Today's announcement demonstrates the success that happens when the community comes together with all levels of government to address an important issue, such as the need for emergency shelter," said Minister Mackintosh. "Manitoba is pleased to support those individuals who benefit from the services provided at Hannah's Place. This represents one step in our government's commitment to developing a long-term, multi-stakeholder plan to prevent homelessness."
"Siloam Mission continues to be a symbol of hope and opportunity for those in need," said Deputy Mayor Leipsic. "This initiative will provide another tool to combat homelessness and provide healthy alternatives for those seeking emergency services."
Hannah's Place Emergency Shelter provides clean beds and hot showers while honouring the dignity of the men and women who seek refuge within. The new shelter, launched May 1, 2007, is currently providing 65 beds for homeless men, women, and youth, with an eventual capacity for 105 beds. The facility also features a common lounge area, individual shower stalls and private change rooms. It is named after 11-year-old homeless advocate Hannah Taylor, founder of the Ladybug Foundation.
"For those living on the streets, life is far from easy - especially at night," said John Mohan, Siloam Mission CEO. "We are grateful for this funding from WHHI and for their confidence in Siloam Mission to build and offer a secure shelter for people who are experiencing homelessness. It is our privilege to provide a place of dignity and safety, and we are already seeing growth and progress in the lives of our patrons as a result."
As a Christian humanitarian agency, Siloam Mission is a connecting point between the compassionate and Winnipeg's less fortunate. Siloam Mission alleviates the hardships of poverty and homelessness as Mission staff, volunteers and donors provide free meals, shelter, clothing and support services. The Mission assists in transitioning homeless and disadvantaged people to more self-sufficient and healthier lifestyles by providing referral services, life-skill development, education upgrading and employment training opportunities.
The total estimated project cost of the emergency shelter is $910,000. Financial support includes $744,070 from the Government of Canada, $60,000 from the Winnipeg Foundation, $50,000 from the Thomas Sill Foundation, $20,000 from the Ladybug Foundation and $20,000 from private donations and other foundational support. The organization is also receiving more than $360,000 this year from Manitoba Family Services and Housing, to support the operation of Hannah's Place.
The funding is co-ordinated by the WHHI, a partnership established by the Government of Canada, the Province of Manitoba and the City of Winnipeg to address homelessness, declining housing stock and the revitalization of Winnipeg's older neighbourhoods.
Since 2000, the WHHI partnership has committed over $98 million to repair, rehabilitate, or construct over 3,710 housing units as well as assist those who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. The WHHI is a single-window office for community organizations to access information on government-funded housing and homelessness programs.
The Government of Canada's new Homelessness Partnering Strategy began on April 1, 2007. It will provide $269.6 million over two years to help communities across Canada combat homelessness more effectively. The Strategy puts in place structures and supports that help people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless move to self-sufficiency, and fosters partnerships aimed at achieving concrete results and enhanced sustainability.
For more information on the federal government's Homelessness Partnering Strategy, visit www.homelessness.gc.ca.
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This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.
Pema Lhalungpa
Press Secretary
Office of Minister Solberg
819-994-2482
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and Social Development Canada
819-994-5559
John Thorpe
Communications Services Manitoba
Public Affairs
204-945-4997
Brad Salyn
Director of Communications
Office of the Mayor
City of Winnipeg
204-986-4003
