June 24, 2014 – Edmonton, Alberta – Employment and Social Development Canada
The Harper Government is investing more than $2,400,000 in funding to the Alberta Rural Development Network to combat homelessness in rural and remote areas across Alberta. The Honourable Kevin Sorenson, Minister of State (Finance), made the announcement today on behalf of the Honourable Candice Bergen, Minister of State (Social Development).
As part of the Harper Government’s focus on creating jobs and opportunities, the Alberta Rural Development Network is receiving this investment to support projects that prevent and reduce homelessness over five years.
The cornerstone of the Government’s renewed Homelessness Partnering Strategy (HPS) is based on the Housing First approach. That approach aims to stabilize the lives of homeless people for the long term by first moving them into permanent housing and then providing additional support for underlying issues, such as addiction and mental health problems. The goal is to help individuals become self-sufficient, fully participating members of society.
“We are pleased to partner with the Alberta Rural Development Network to provide essential services to people in need so we can prevent and address homelessness in rural and remote areas throughout Alberta. Our ultimate goal is to equip and empower individuals so they are able to obtain the skills and employment necessary to become fully participating members of the economy.”
– Kevin Sorenson, Minister of State (Finance)
“The Alberta Rural Development Network is grateful for the opportunity to deliver the Government of Canada’s funding for rural and remote homelessness in Alberta. By working directly with smaller communities to address their unique issues, we can help homeless and at risk individuals be more successful in their own communities.”
– Dee Ann Benard, Executive Director, ARDN
"The Government’s renewal of the Homelessness Partnering Strategy with a shift to Housing First is great news. The results of the At Home/Chez Soi project clearly demonstrate that the Housing First approach works in Canada. A house is so much more than a roof over one's head. It represents dignity, security, and, above all, hope."
– Louise Bradley, President and CEO of the Mental Health Commission of Canada.
Meagan Murdoch
Communications
Office of the Minister of State (Finance)
613-996-7861
Media Relations Office
Employment and Social Development Canada
819-994-5559
media@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca
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