March 19, 2010 Province adds 40 homes for the homeless in

Lethbridge... Chronically homeless people in Lethbridge will soon be helped by a new long-term supportive living complex. The Alberta government is providing $5.6 million to Covenant Health to create 40 barrier-free studio rental units that include a range of support services targeted to homeless people with mental and physical health conditions.

"Providing vulnerable people with permanent housing and the supports they need to break the cycle of homelessness is the right thing to do for the individual and for taxpayers,” said , Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs. “These barrier-free units will give people the stability they need to rebuild their lives and ultimately regain their independence.” Alberta marked the first anniversary of its 10-year plan to end homelessness on March 16. Since adopting the plan 12 months ago, the province has met or exceeded many of its first-year benchmark goals. Shelter use is down in all major cities; more than 900 homes for the homeless are in the works; and more than 1,300 formerly homeless people have been permanently housed and are receiving the supports needed to help them become independent. "Our vision is to be of greater service to Albertans, especially those who are most in need," said Patrick Dumelie, President and CEO of Covenant Health. "This project enables us to serve a vulnerable population by providing supportive housing for homeless people with chronic or complex health conditions. We are grateful to the province for the grant and are pleased to be working with the City of Lethbridge towards implementing it." Greg Weadick, MLA for Lethbridge-West remarked, “Homelessness continues to be a challenge for many southern Alberta communities including Lethbridge. The addition of 40 new barrier-free units will go a long way to easing the burden of our most disadvantaged citizens. I commend Covenant Health for partnering with the Alberta Government to create these 40 barrier-free studios.” Alberta’s 10-year plan adopts a Housing First approach, in which permanent, safe housing is provided along with the supports and services needed to address the underlying causes of homelessness. This model increases the likelihood that the individual will reach independence and is a practical and cost-effective way to coordinate and maximize resources. During the past year, government committed $100 million through a Request for Proposal (RFP) process to develop housing specifically for homeless individuals and families. A target of adding 700 units in communities across the province was exceeded due to reduced construction costs, with a total of 933 units being supported. An additional $32 million was provided to community-based agencies to help deliver services such as treatment for health and addiction issues, life-skills training, and employment assistance. Budget 2010 provides for a second $100 million RFP to develop housing for the homeless and increased funding for supports and services to $42 million. For more information on A Plan for Alberta: Ending Homelessness in 10 Years, please visit www.housing.alberta.ca. The Alberta government has a clear plan for a strong economic recovery. An important part of The Way Forward is maintaining support for programs and services Albertans need most, such as health care, education and safe and vibrant communities. For more information on the plan visit www.Alberta.ca. -30- Media inquiries may be directed to: Barbra Korol, Communications Fran Ross, Vice President, Housing and Urban Affairs Communications 780-644-6838 / cell 780-966-8141 Covenant Health [email protected] 780-735-7888 / cell 780-720-0966 To call toll free within Alberta dial [email protected]