News Release

SAINT JOHN (GNB) – The provincial and federal governments are jointly contributing about $3.6 million toward the construction of a 12-unit building in Saint John for transitional housing for women who have experienced homelessness.

“We are very pleased to support this important housing project for the Coverdale Centre for Women which has been providing services to vulnerable women and children in Saint John since 1975,” said Social Development Minister Dorothy Shephard. “This is designed to give women a chance to re-enter the housing market by providing them with a safe temporary place to live, complete with wrap-around services and the resources needed for each of them to succeed.”

The project developed by the Coverdale Centre for Women aims at addressing the needs and gaps in transitional housing for women who are experiencing episodic or chronic homelessness. It will include four accessible units and a courtyard which will have a communal outdoor living space to provide gardening opportunities.

“Everyone deserves safe and affordable housing,” said federal Housing and Diversity and Inclusion Minister Ahmed Hussen. “This is why it is important to support local partners such as Coverdale Centre for Women to develop more housing options for vulnerable members of our population, particularly women facing challenging situations. The National Housing Co-Investment Fund allows our government to pursue its constant efforts in supporting non-profit organizations to better respond to the needs of our citizens across Canada. This is the National Housing Strategy in action.”

The funding allocated by governments is as follow:

• Social Development – $480,000 and 12 rent supplements for 20 years equalling about $1.4 million.
• Regional Development Corporation – $400,000 contribution through the Community Development Fund.
• The federal government’s Rapid Housing Initiative – $1.4 million.

“The social and economic value of the project aligns with our government’s priority to foster vibrant and sustainable communities,” said Environment and Climate Change Minister Gary Crossman, who is also minister responsible for the Regional Development Corporation.