KUGAARUK, NU, March 18, 2013 /CNW/ - Nunavummiut facing homelessness will benefit from new emergency housing as a result of funding provided to the Hamlet of Kugaaruk. The announcement was made by the honourable Leona Aglukkaq, PC, Member of Parliament for Nunavut, on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development.
"Our government is committed to assisting Nunavummiut with housing needs to help them break free from the cycle of homelessness and poverty," said Minister Aglukkaq. "We are pleased to partner with the Hamlet of Kugaaruk in its efforts to find local solutions to local problems. By partnering with local organizations to provide essential services to people in need, we are doing our part to prevent and address homelessness in Nunavut."
Homelessness Partnering Strategy (HPS) funding of over $94,000 will help provide safe and comfortable housing for people who are homeless after escaping domestic violence. The funding will be used to renovate and provide furnishings for a house that is owned by the Hamlet of Kugaaruk, which will be used as an emergency shelter for up to six people.
"We are grateful for this funding that enables us to provide a safe place for people to begin their healing process," said Stephan Inaksajak, Mayor of Kugaaruk. "We are a small community without the crisis response resources to address the complex needs of our vulnerable members. On behalf of our residents at risk, those who are homeless, and those who are fleeing domestic violence, I want to formally thank the Government of Canada."
In September 2008, the Government of Canada committed to investing more than
$1.9 billion in housing and homelessness programs over five years. As part of this commitment, the Government of Canada 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. A renewal of the HPS extended that commitment to March 2014.
Since the launch of the HPS in April 2007, the Government has approved over $736 million for projects that 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, please 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):
Alyson Queen
Director of Communications
Office of Minister Finley
819-994-2482
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and Skills Development Canada
819-994-5559
Follow us on Twitter
IF THERE IS A DISCREPANCY BETWEEN ANY PRINTED VERSION AND THE ELECTRONIC VERSION OF THIS NEWS RELEASE, THE ELECTRONIC VERSION WILL PREVAIL.
Share this article