SIOUX LOOKOUT, Ontario, January 23, 2009—The Government of Canada is helping those who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless build a stronger future for themselves. 

Mr. Greg Rickford, MP for Kenora, on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development, announced that the Homelessness Partnering Strategy is helping to renovate and purchase equipment for the Out of the Cold shelter in Sioux Lookout.

“Our government is supporting many Canadians with housing needs and is fulfilling its commitment to help those seeking to break free of the cycle of homelessness and poverty,” said Mr. Rickford.  “We are proud to support community efforts that help find local solutions to local issues. By investing in this project, we are supporting community efforts to help those in need.”

The announcement took place at the Sioux Lookout, Out of the Cold shelter, run by the Community Counselling and Addiction Services (CCAS), a branch of the Sioux Lookout Meno-Ya-Win Health Centre.

This project will enable the organization to develop day services and programming for the local homeless population such as counselling, life skills development, food preparation classes and addiction services. Individuals will benefit from having a safe place to live, where they can get help to transition out of homelessness. The Government of Canada is contributing more than $96,000 to this project.

The Homelessness Partnering Strategy recognizes that housing stability is essential to self-sufficiency and full participation in Canadian society. It focuses on transitional and supportive housing to help people overcome homelessness.  With its clear goals of improved partnerships, enhanced sustainability and tangible results, the strategy provides concrete, meaningful and lasting results for Canadians in need.

The Government of Canada will invest $1.9 billion in housing and homelessness over the next five years.           

“Our government is investing more in affordable and supportive housing than any other federal government in Canada’s history and, as a result, we are helping tens of thousands of Canadians who are especially vulnerable in the current economic environment,” said Mr. Rickford.