VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA, January 11, 2008 — The Honourable Stockwell Day, Minister of Public Safety, on behalf of the Honourable Monte Solberg, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development, today during the grand opening of the North Shore Youth Safe House in North Vancouver, underscored the Government of Canada's commitment to address homelessness.
"Our government is delivering on its commitment to help those who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless," said Minister Day. "The North Shore Youth Safe House will help provide youth who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless with access to the safe housing and support they need to become more independent and enjoy a better quality of life."
The North Shore Youth Safe House, operated by the Hollyburn Family Services Society, will provide a four-bed emergency shelter and a two-bed transitional supportive housing unit for youth. The shelter will offer support to youth 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including the development of life skills, personal counselling, addiction counselling and employment coaching.
The Government of Canada is fostering partnerships with all levels of government and community organizations, including those that serve youth who are homeless or at risk of homelessness in Canada. The North Shore Youth Safe House is an excellent example of what can be achieved through these partnerships. The Government is contributing $543,669 to this project for operational costs.
The Government of Canada, through its Homelessness Partnering Strategy (HPS), is providing $269.6 million over two years to help communities across Canada combat homelessness more effectively. The HPS puts in place structures and supports that help people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless achieve self sufficiency and full participation in society.
- 30 -
This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.
For more information on the Homelessness Partnering Strategy, please visit www.homelessness.gc.ca.
For further information (media only):
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and Social Development Canada
819-994-5559
