Jun 29 2016
Seniors and other individuals who have experienced homelessness, or at risk for homelessness, will soon have increased options for affordable rental housing in Saanich, including vital supports in an environment that also meets social needs.
Construction is underway at Cottage Grove which will provide 45 safe and comfortable homes for at risk individuals including seniors and help meet the need for affordable housing in the community.
Located at 3207 Quadra St., the building will be operated and managed by the Victoria Cool Aid Society. While operational funding is still being determined, the plan is to offer residents a variety of support services such as medication monitoring and life skills programs. Residents will also be connected to mental health and addictions services.
The building will also include a resident lounge, dining area and communal laundry area. The central location along the Quadra Street Corridor will allow for easy access to public transportation and community services.
Construction is expected to be complete by early 2017.
Quick Facts:
- The Governments of Canada and B.C. will provide a combined investment of approximately $6 million under the Canada-B.C. Investment in Affordable Housing Agreement.
- The Capital Regional District's Regional Housing Trust Fund will provide $675,000 towards the project.
- The City of Victoria and District of Saanich will each provide $112,000.
Quotes:
Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and Minister Responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation - "The peace of mind that comes with having a secure and stable home is invaluable. This is why our Government is glad to be involved in the creation of these 45 new units which will provide at-risk individuals including seniors in Saanich with affordable and quality housing while supporting the local economy."
Rich Coleman, Minister of Natural Gas Development and Minister Responsible for Housing - "Addressing housing and homelessness in the province is a collective responsibility. Partnerships such as this are essential to successfully create housing options for singles, families, seniors and other British Columbians in need."
Mayor Richard Atwell, District of Saanich - "I'm thrilled to see this partnership move forward. We have vulnerable citizens in the district, and addressing housing options in conjunction with community support is key to ensuring their needs are met with dignity and respect."
Barbara Desjardins, Chair, Capital Regional District - "The CRD is pleased to support this excellent project. With backing provided by the federal and provincial governments and contributions from partners, we're able to have a significant impact in creating housing options for vulnerable populations in the region."
Kathy Stinson, CEO, Victoria Cool Aid Society - "The construction of Cottage Grove is well underway, and another step further in our efforts to end homelessness in the Capital Region. Supportive housing apartment buildings such as this, especially in such a central location on a major transit route, are integral to our efforts to find solutions in all communities to help adults experiencing marginalization."
Associated links:
- CMHC has been helping Canadians meet their housing needs for more than 70 years. As Canada's authority on housing, CMHC contributes to the stability of the housing market and financial system, provide support for Canadians in housing need, and offer unbiased housing research and advice to Canadian governments, consumers and the housing industry. Prudent risk management, strong corporate governance and transparency are cornerstones of its operations. For more information, please call 1-800-668-2642 FREE or visit www.cmhc.ca.
- Since 2001, the B.C. government has invested $4.4 billion to provide affordable housing for low-income individuals, seniors and families. This year, nearly 102,000 B.C. households will benefit from provincial social housing programs and services. To find out more, go to: www.bchousing.org.