WillowBridge Housing opens in Kelowna

The governments of Canada, British Columbia and Kelowna, along with community partners, gathered today to celebrate the official opening of Willowbridge, a new building providing 40 studio apartments with integrated support services for people at risk of homelessness in Kelowna.

"Our government is proud to have contributed to Willowbridge Transitional Housing," said the Honourable Stockwell Day, President of the Treasury Board and Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway, on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development and Minister Responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). "This type of supportive housing is a truly innovative and valuable addition to this community, because it bridges the gap between homelessness and stable, long-term affordable housing. For the individuals who will live here, these new units are more than just a roof over their heads -- they are the key to a better future."

"This development is another important step in breaking the cycle of homelessness in Kelowna," said Rich Coleman, Minister of Housing and Social Development. "All of the partners have come together with a common goal - to connect individuals at risk of homelessness with safe, affordable and supportive housing. At Willowbridge, the tenants will have supports and services to help them be successful in life."

Through an amendment to the Canada-British Columbia Affordable Housing Agreement, the federal government contributed $2,970,000 to the project. The province will give $4,832,205 and provide $487,312 in annual operational funding.

Willowbridge is the first of three buildings to officially open in Kelowna as a result of an agreement formed by the province and City of Kelowna in March 2008 to provide more supportive housing. The city provided land equity estimated at $564,400 for this development.

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