SASKATOON, SASKATCHEWAN–(Marketwire – April 10, 2012) – Single mothers and children who are homeless or at risk of homelessness will have greater access to support and transitional housing, announced Maurice Vellacott, Member of Parliament for Saskatoon-Wanuskewin, today on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development.

 

“Our government is giving a hand-up to Canadians with housing needs and helping to break the cycle of homelessness and poverty,” said Mr. Vellacott. “We are pleased to support the Saskatoon Downtown Youth Centre in its efforts to find local solutions to local problems. By working together, we are increasing opportunities for women to move towards self-sufficiency and to find housing.”

 

“We are proud to partner with the Government of Canada, Government of Saskatchewan, City of Saskatoon, and North Ridge Development Corporation on the creation of Mah’s Place,” said Don Meikle, Director of Housing and Outreach Services, Saskatoon Downtown Youth Centre. “The Government of Canada’s contribution will ensure that mothers and children will have a safe home. Mah’s Place will allow single mothers to continue with education and employment options that in the future will make them self-sufficient and help them keep their family intact.”

 

The Saskatoon Downtown Youth Centre (EGADZ) is receiving Homelessness Partnering Strategy funding of nearly $370,000 to purchase a new five-bedroom house to be used as transitional housing for single mothers and children who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. EGADZ will also provide the women with parenting and life-skills training and help in finding longer-term affordable housing.

 

This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.

 

BACKGROUNDER

 

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 April 2, 2012, a total of 1 801 approved projects totalling over $642 million were funded under the HPS to prevent and reduce homelessness in Canada.

 

The HPS provides structures and supports that help people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness 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, 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 encourages a housing-first approach, recognizing that an important first step in addressing homelessness 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.