October 23, 2009
Second-Stage Women's Housing Opens in Burnaby

BURNABY - Women and children seeking stability and support when leaving the first stage of transitional housing now have more options in Burnaby with the opening of Wenda's Place, a $3.98-million development providing nine units of second-stage housing, announced Rich Coleman, Minister of Housing and Social Development.

"Through these nine new units and integrated support services, Wenda's Place will provide safe and stable housing for women and children facing a range of challenges," said Coleman. "This government is committed to helping people move beyond temporary shelter to more secure housing, gain greater self-reliance and achieve employment."

The Province provided a grant of $2.48 million. The Government of Canada provided $600,000 through the Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC) Homelessness Partnering Strategy (HPS) and Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) provided $500,000 through the Shelter Enhancement Program, as well as $10,000 in SEED Funding.

"Wenda's Place is an important resource in the lives of women and children who are ready to leave the transition house and make a new start," said Richard T. Lee, MLA for Burnaby North. "The Province worked together with federal and community partners to improve the lives of women at risk of homelessness in the community. I am pleased to see the Marguerite Dixon Transition House second-stage housing project has become a reality."

"Our government is supporting Canadians with housing needs and is fulfilling our commitment to help those seeking to break free of the cycle of homelessness and poverty," said Senator Yonah Martin, on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development and Minister Responsible for CMHC. "Through this investment, the Dixon Transition Society will be able to provide help to women and children who are in need."

The Real Estate Foundation of B.C. provided $300,000 toward the construction of this new development and the City of Burnaby provided $100,000 through its Community Benefit Bonus Housing Funds program to support the development of this project. This is one of a number of affordable housing initiatives to which the city has contributed.

"The Real Estate Foundation of B.C. is pleased to support the development of this second-stage housing project," said Stephen Mullock, foundation chair. "We see our involvement as a practical strategy in providing an effective long-term solution for those who are forging a new path."

"The City of Burnaby is pleased to be able to support this important community based project which responds to need for affordable second-stage housing for women in our community," said Burnaby Mayor Derek Corrigan. "Dixon Transition Society is a highly respected non-profit service provider in Burnaby, and this project will further support and complement their existing services for women seeking to re-establish their lives."

With the completion of Wenda`s Place, Dixon Transition Society has increased their number of transitional housing units to a total of 14 to better meet the needs of the women they serve.

"This new development will provide women and their children with the supports they require to build healthy futures," said Adele Wilson, executive director, Dixon Transition Society. "We will provide women with a safe and caring environment from which they can springboard into successful independent living and housing stability."

In 2009-10, the Province's budget for affordable housing and shelters is $469 million, more than four times as much as in 2001.

The Government of Canada's Homelessness Partnering Strategy works with communities and Aboriginal groups to put 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. This strategy is targeted at the development of transitional and supportive housing, and related support services.

-30-