PONOKA, Alberta, August 06, 2008 — Low-income singles and persons with special needs now have an affordable housing option thanks to a partnership between the Community Mental Health Services (Adult Community Program for the David Thompson Health Region), the Ponoka Rising Sun Club House Society, the Rimoka Housing Foundation and private enterprise.
North Bridge Suites has officially opened its doors offering 23 studio or bachelor units at below market value, with rents less than $400 per month. Of the 23 units, 19 are for recipients of the provincial Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH) program.
“Our Government is committed to making housing more affordable for Albertans and Canadians across the country for those who need it most,” said Blaine Calkins, Member of Parliament for Wetaskiwin on behalf of the Honourable Monte Solberg, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development. “Projects like North Bridge Suites, will give low income individuals and persons with special needs in Ponoka the opportunity to stay in their community close to family and friends, while receiving the care and support they need.”
“This supportive and affordable housing initiative will provide a safe new beginning for Albertans who are ready to reintegrate into the community,” said Yvonne Fritz, Minister of Alberta Housing and Urban Affairs. “I am pleased that we are a partner in bringing safe and affordable housing to these vulnerable Albertans.”
“Congratulations on a project that is well done and much needed in our community,” said Doug Gill, Chairman of the Rimoka Housing Foundation.”
This is the final year (2008 – 09) of a three-year commitment that will see the completion of $40 million in federal funding made available through the Affordable Housing Trust Fund and administered by the provincial government. North Bridge Suites received $1.4 million in capital funding from this initiative.
The Government of Alberta continues to work in partnership with the federal government in providing funding for projects that increase the supply of affordable housing through the development of new rental units as well as transitional and supportive housing.
Media inquiries may be directed to:
Bill Strickland
Alberta Housing and Urban Affairs
Tel.: 780-422-8047
Email: bill.strickland@gov.ab.ca
To call toll-free within Alberta dial 310-0000
Kimberlee Jones
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
Tel.: 403-515-3048
Email: kjones@cmhc.ca