Province buys local apartment building for Housing First initiative

Medicine Hat Community Housing now has a 15-unit apartment building to provide supportive housing thanks to a purchase of a local complex by the Province of Alberta.

The initiative was highlighted on the society’s wishlist during a spring update.

Homeless and housing manager Jaime Rogers told an audience the next step would be to seek out a permanent supportive complex where tenants would have access to counsellors and administrators around the clock.

The idea is to help residents deal more easily with issues such as mental and physical health problems or substance abuse issues.

Rogers said Tuesday the group was “thrilled with this investment in our community.”

“This project will include the provision of onsite 24/7 supports to individuals who have a history, or at risk of, housing instability that are currently living in the private rental market and being supported by our exceptional community partners and services,” she said in a statement.

Community and Social Services Minister Irfan Sabir announced the $2.15 million purchase.

“Working with our partners, our government is helping Medicine Hat residents get the supports they need while living in a house of their own, so they can regain their independence and get back on their feet,” he said.

The province provides $3.1 million for Housing First programming and outreach support in Medicine Hat. Another $560,000 is given annually to support the community’s homeless shelter.