WINNIPEG, March 8, 2013 /CNW/ - Vulnerable Canadians who are homeless and suffering from mental illness will benefit from research examining ways to prevent evictions, as a result of federal funding provided to the University of Winnipeg. The Honourable Vic Toews, Minister of Public Safety and Member of Parliament for Provencher, made the announcement today on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development.
"Our government is giving a hand up to vulnerable Canadians to help them meet their basic needs and break free from the cycle of homelessness and poverty. We are pleased to support the University of Winnipeg in its efforts to work with local organizations to find solutions to local problems," said Minister Toews. "By supporting local organizations in their efforts to provide essential services to people in need, we are doing our part to prevent and address homelessness in Manitoba".
With this investment of over $77,000, through the Homelessness Partnering Strategy (HPS), the University of Winnipeg will conduct research and create a toolkit outlining best practices to maintain housing stability and prevent eviction among people with mental illnesses.
"This toolkit will support communities and housing service providers in their efforts to maintain stable housing for people with mental illnesses who are at high risk of homelessness," said Mr. Jino Distasio, Director of the Institute of Urban Studies, University of Winnipeg.
In September 2008, the Government committed to more than $1.9 billion in housing and homelessness programs over five years. As part of this commitment, the Government of Canada has renewed the HPS until March 2014.
backgrounder
Homelessness Partnering Strategy
The Homelessness Partnering Strategy (HPS) is a unique community-based program aimed at preventing and reducing homelessness by providing direct support and funding to 61 designated communities across Canada.
In September 2008, the Government committed to investing more than $1.9 billion in housing and homelessness programs over five years. This includes a renewal of the HPS until March 2014.
Since the launch of the Homelessness Partnering Strategy (HPS) in April 2007, the Government has approved over $736 million for projects to prevent and reduce homelessness across Canada.
The HPS provides structures and supports that help people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness to achieve self-sufficiency and participate fully in society. This model seeks to address homelessness by working in partnership with the provinces and territories and other federal departments, as well as with communities and the private and not-for-profit sectors.
The availability of safe, stable housing and related supports is an important element in addressing homelessness and helping individuals who are homeless achieve greater self-sufficiency and a better quality of life. The Government's investments are creating jobs, stimulating local economies and improving the quality of life for many Canadians.
By working with all our partners, we will maximize results to make a lasting difference in the lives of vulnerable Canadians. The HPS provides the support that our community partners are seeking.
The HPS encourages a housing-first approach, recognizing that housing stability is an important first step in addressing homelessness. It is also necessary for the success of other interventions such as education and training, the development of life skills and the management of mental health issues.
For more information on the HPS and the seven funding streams, visit www.hrsdc.gc.ca/homelessness.
SOURCE: Human Resources and Skills Development Canada
This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.
For further information (media only):
Marian Ngo
Press Secretary
Office of Minister Finley
819-994-2482
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and Skills Development Canada
819-994-5559
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