MELFORT, SASKATCHEWAN--(Marketwired - May 7, 2015) - The Government of Canada and the Province of Saskatchewan, along with community partners, celebrated the construction of a new emergency shelter for women and children who are victims of family violence. The 16-bed shelter, to be owned by North East Outreach and Support Services Inc. (NEOSS), will serve the community of Melfort and surrounding area and include support services.
Randy Hoback, Member of Parliament for Prince Albert, on behalf of the Honourable Candice Bergen, Minister of State (Social Development), along with Kevin Phillips, Member of the Legislative Assembly for Melfort, on behalf of the Honourable Donna Harpauer, Minister of Social Services and Minister responsible for Saskatchewan Housing Corporation, made the announcement today.
"Our Government is giving a hand-up to those in need, which is why we are proud to have invested in this project here in Melfort," said MP Hoback. "This shelter will play a vital role in the community and is more than just a safe and affordable place to live; it is the key to a better life for the women and children who will call it home."
"Our Government continues to work to assist victims of family violence in Saskatchewan," said Melfort MLA Phillips. "The construction of this shelter is an example of the commitment by many in this community and region to help women and children in times of fear and uncertainty. It also reflects our commitment to keeping Saskatchewan strong by supporting individuals and families in greatest housing need."
"This shelter will provide an alternative for those families who are most vulnerable in our society. We commend the efforts of the North East Outreach and Support Services and the commitment of both the Federal Government and the Provincial Government for their involvement in a solution to those in need in time of crisis," said Melfort Mayor Rick Lang.
Louise Schweitzer, Executive Director of NEOSS said: "As an organization working with victims on a daily basis we look forward to being able to open our doors to provide emergency shelter. This will enhance and grow the services we currently provide to better assist the women and children in our community of the North East to transition to a violence free lifestyle."
The federal and provincial governments, through Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) and Saskatchewan Housing Corporation (SHC), are jointly contributing over $1.6 million under the Canada-Saskatchewan Investment in Affordable Housing 2014-2019 Agreement. In addition, the City of Melfort contributed $188,000 for the land and NEOSS contributed approximately $111,000 in cash equity and about $460,000 in mortgage financing. The Saskatchewan Ministry of Justice is also contributing just over $659,000 this fiscal year. The funding will support the development of the transition house services, as well as ongoing family violence outreach services that help victims of interpersonal violence and abuse.