Manitoba Government News Release–The Manitoba government is presenting its latest project to help address the housing needs in Manitoba, with capital funding, rent supplements and in-kind contributions to bolster the redevelopment of 575 Balmoral, reaffirming the government’s commitment to enhancing housing access for those who need it most, Housing, Addictions, and Homelessness Minister Bernadette Smith announced today.
“Our government is pleased to support the redevelopment of 575 Balmoral, which will address some of the most pressing housing needs of First Nations youth in Winnipeg,” said Smith. “I believe wholeheartedly that our collaborative efforts must be focused on supporting youth and families with young children who are at risk of experiencing homelessness. From emergency housing and wraparound supports to social housing, the Manitoba government is taking action to improve housing across the spectrum including projects like this one that prioritize the well-being of our young ones and will allow them to thrive and become future leaders in our communities.”
As the successful proponent of Manitoba Housing’s negotiated request for proposals to redevelop the site, the Manitoba government is donating the land to the Winnipeg Housing Rehabilitation Corporation (WHRC). The WHRC will receive the property and buildings located at 575 Balmoral St. and up to $2.2 million in capital funding toward its redevelopment, which will include the construction of a new 30-unit building. The Manitoba government is also providing funding of approximately $577,000 annually to ensure all units can be rented on a rent-geared-to-income basis and that wraparound supports can be provided by project partners.
“Winnipeg Housing Rehabilitation Corporation is honored to be selected to re-develop 575 Balmoral,” said James Heinrichs, executive director, Winnipeg Housing and Renewal Corporation. “With concerted efforts, collaborative support and commitment from all levels of government, this project will provide a home and hope for one of our most vulnerable populations, youth at risk of homelessness. We are eager to move this project forward with our partners: the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs’ First Nations Family Advocate Office and Spence Neighbourhood Association, who will be instrumental in providing on-site support services and community care crucial to fulfil the mental, physical, emotional and spiritual well-being of our youth and prevent the recurrence of homelessness. Together, we will make great strides towards ending our homelessness and housing crisis.”
WHRC will partner with the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs’ First Nations Family Advocate Office and Spence Neighbourhood Association’s Youth Homelessness Program to provide housing and wraparound supports to youth exiting the child welfare system and to expectant parents at risk of Child and Family Services involvement.
“This historic partnership demonstrates our shared commitment to support First Nations youth who find themselves here in the city,” said Grand Chief Cathy Merrick, Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs. “Our partnership is a testament to what can be achieved when we come together with a common purpose – to uplift and support the next generation. By providing a foundation upon which they can build a stronger, brighter future, we are not just investing in individual lives but in the collective future of all First Nations. We continue to envision a future where every First Nations child grows up in a safe, nurturing environment surrounded by their culture, language and traditions. Today marks an important step towards building the foundation to which this can be achieved.”
Budget 2024 delivers on the government of Manitoba’s commitment to end chronic homelessness. It invests over $116 million for the construction and upkeep of social and affordable housing initiatives.
