THOMPSON, MANITOBA, MARCH 18, 2011—An emergency shelter for homeless and at-risk individuals in Thompson will continue to operate day and night to serve those in need, thanks to support from both the governments of Canada and Manitoba.
The Honourable Vic Toews, Minister of Public Safety and Regional Minister for Manitoba, on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development, and the Honourable Kerri Irvin-Ross, Minister of Housing and Community Development for Manitoba, made the announcement today.
Homelessness Partnering Strategy funding of over $141,000, and more than $301,000 from the Government of Manitoba, will allow the Thompson Homeless Shelter to retain staff and stay open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The facility provides emergency shelter for up to 24 homeless individuals per night, as well as support services such as meals, shower and laundry facilities, and a clothing bank.
“Our government is giving a hand-up to Canadians with housing needs, and is helping those seeking to break free from the cycle of homelessness and poverty,” said Minister Toews. “We are pleased to support the Thompson Homeless Shelter so that it can continue to provide emergency shelter and important services to those in need in the community of Thompson.”
“It is heart wrenching to think that there are people without homes, without shelters, and without protection from the cold,” said Minister Irvin-Ross. “That’s why your Manitoba government is investing in initiatives to prevent homelessness for those who are at risk and working with our community partners to provide a roof and bed for the night and to help people to integrate themselves back into society in a positive way.”
“This funding is so important, as the Shelter will be able to continue operations,” said Ms. Paullette Simkins, Executive Director of the Thompson Homeless Shelter. “We are able to provide the homeless shelter clients with much-needed support services and assistance.”
The federal funding amount is contingent upon the completion of an official agreement with the organization.
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This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.
For further information (media only):
Ryan Sparrow
Director of Communications
Office of Minister Finley
819-994-2482
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and
Skills Development Canada
819-994-5559
The Homelessness Partnering Strategy (HPS) is a unique community-based program aimed at preventing and reducing homelessness by providing direct support and funding to 61 designated communities across Canada. The HPS took effect April 1, 2007, with annual funding of $134.8 million for two years. In September 2008, the Government committed to investing more than $1.9 billion in housing and homelessness programs over five years, until March 2014. This includes a renewal of the HPS until March 2014.
As of March 14, 2011, the Government has provided over $438 million in HPS funding for a total of 1 358 projects to prevent and reduce homelessness in Canada.
The HPS provides structures and supports that help people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless achieve self-sufficiency and full participation in society. This model seeks to address homelessness by working in partnership with the provinces and territories, other federal departments, as well as with communities and the private and not-for-profit sectors.
The availability of safe and stable housing and related supports is an important element in addressing homelessness and helping individuals who are homeless achieve greater self‑sufficiency and a better quality of life. The Government’s investments are creating jobs, stimulating local economies and improving the quality of life for many Canadians.
By working with all our partners, we will maximize results to make a lasting difference in the lives of vulnerable Canadians. The HPS provides the support that our community partners are seeking.
The HPS uses a housing-first approach, recognizing that the first step is to provide individuals with transitional and supportive housing.
For more information on the HPS and the seven funding streams, please visit www.hrsdc.gc.ca/homelessness.
Through Manitoba’s Long-Term Housing Strategy, HOMEWorks!, the Province of Manitoba and the Government of Canada are contributing $378 million over two years for housing initiatives in Winnipeg and across the province. More information about HOMEWorks! is available at www.gov.mb.ca/housing.
