More Supportive Housing in Cape Breton
A third supportive housing location in Sydney will soon open to help men experiencing chronic homelessness transition to permanent housing.
The new units on Byng Avenue, operated by the Cape Breton Community Housing Association, will have room for six men. The Province is providing more than $320,000 in annual funding for the new location, in addition to funding supportive housing on Union and Margaret streets. Combined, the three locations will support up to 21 men at a time.
“With our partners, we are supporting solutions to homelessness that are diverse and respond to the unique needs of individuals and families,” said Community Services Minister Karla MacFarlane. “These supportive housing units ensure people can access services they need within the community and within their home.”
The supportive housing units have staff available 24/7 and on-site supports to help the men increase their independent living skills and social inclusion.
Quotes:
“To date, the supportive housing options we have provided have been successful and the tenants have been able to benefit from the greatest housing stability they have experienced in some time. Supportive housing is a key tool, along with other resources, to effectively end chronic homelessness.”
– Fred Deveaux, Executive Director, Cape Breton Community Housing Association
Quick Facts:
- Cape Breton Community Housing Association provides support and services for homeless people in Cape Breton Regional Municipality and Port Hawkesbury
- overall, the association receives almost $2 million in annual funding from the Department to support its work providing emergency sheltering; housing support workers; housing locator, trustee and preventative services; and the rural shelter diversion fund
Additional Resources:
Mandate letter of the Minister of Community Services: https://novascotia.ca/exec_council/letters-2021/ministerial-mandate-letter-2021-DCS-OLA-SOW.pdf