Transportation and Works
October 19, 2012

The following is being distributed at the request of Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation:

Wiseman Centre Opens Women’s Wing

The Salvation Army Wiseman Centre in St. John’s officially opened its first emergency shelter units for women today. The new women’s wing was made possible through a $165,000 investment from Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation’s Provincial Homelessness Fund.

“The Provincial Government is committed to preventing and alleviating homelessness with the support of our many outstanding community partners such as The Salvation Army,” said the Honorable Tom Hedderson, Minister Responsible for Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation. “I applaud this new form of support that The Salvation Army has created in this community, as it will certainly make a positive difference for women in vulnerable circumstances.”

The Wiseman Centre is a 30-bed facility with 10 supportive housing units and 20 short-term emergency shelter beds, including the four new units now reserved for women.

“As a government we are proud to support the expansion of The Salvation Army Wiseman Centre in order to meet the needs of women in vulnerable circumstances, including women with complex needs,” said the Honourable Charlene Johnson, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women. “These new accommodations will provide a safe, supportive and welcoming living environment for women on the road to independence.”

Over the past three years, Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation’s Provincial Homelessness Fund has provided 33 grants totalling nearly $3 million to 23 non-profit organizations throughout the province. Registered non-profit groups can receive funding to assist with the capital costs associated with developing supportive services space, which enhances their ability to provide on-site and outreach services for people at risk of homelessness.

“This new initiative is indicative of the desire of The Salvation Army to be relevant and responsive to changing dynamics in the community,” said Lieutenant Colonel Wayne Pritchett, Divisional Commander for The Salvation Army, Newfoundland and Labrador. “We are always willing to partner with government and other community partners in our efforts to meet human needs.”

Through the Provincial Homelessness Fund, non-profit groups may also qualify for funding of up to $20,000 towards the purchase of commercial appliances including dishwashers, stoves and refrigerators. This funding would typically be used by groups operating soup kitchens, food banks, or similar programs. Non-profit groups who do not own the property they are proposing to renovate may also be eligible for a maximum of $25,000 for renovations.

A Social Housing Plan for Newfoundland and Labrador – Secure Foundations, released by the Provincial Government in August 2009, outlines a 10-year vision for social housing. It is aimed at improving the housing circumstances of low-income households and helping create healthier communities.

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2012 10 19                            10:40 a.m.