The Government of Canada today announced that it is providing federal homelessness funding for new supportive housing for single mothers who are undertaking further education.

This funding of $415,965 is enabling the YWCA of Halifax to purchase a small apartment building in Halifax, where young single mothers will be provided with supportive housing and services while they undertake post-secondary education.

"Our government is creating affordable housing for Canadians who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless in Nova Scotia and across the country," said the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, on behalf of the Honourable Monte Solberg, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development. "The YWCA's Herizons Housing program will help young mothers find a nurturing and supportive home that will enable them to further their education, learn skills in independent living, and keep themselves and their children safe."

The housing will include five two-bedroom apartments and will alleviate homelessness for at least 10 people (five adults and five children). Single mothers who are homeless or at a risk of becoming homeless, and who are attending or registered to attend university or post-secondary programs full-time, are eligible. In addition, they will receive supports such as child minding, life skills counseling and help with accessing social and community services.

Ms. Elizabeth McCormack, Dalhousie Women's Centre Coordinator and YWCA Board Director, works with a large number of single mothers furthering their education.

"I am inspired by the resiliency of single mothers pursuing post-secondary education," said Ms. McCormack. "I am so excited that YWCA Halifax will be launching this new housing program. I know it will go a long way toward helping single mothers make a better life for their families."

Herizons Housing Programs will be a demonstration program that the YWCA hopes to expand in the future to help more women-led families. The program is expected to be operational by February 2008, and participant applications are now being accepted.

The Government of Canada, through its Homelessness Partnering Strategy (HPS), is taking action to prevent and reduce homelessness. This strategy is providing $269.6 million over two years to help communities across Canada combat homelessness more effectively. The HPS puts in place structures and supports that help people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless achieve self-sufficiency and full participation in society.

For more information on the federal government's Homelessness Partnering Strategy, please visit www.homelessness.gc.ca

YWCA Halifax is a women's organization that provides programs that include early learning, housing, youth development, and health promotion. YWCA Halifax is a turning point for women and has been serving women and families since 1874.

This news release is available in alternative formats upon request. Visit the new departmental Web site at www.hrsdc.gc.ca.

For more information (media only):

Pema Lhalungpa
Press Secretary
Office of Minister Solberg
819-994-2482

Media Relations Office
Human Resources and Social Development Canada
819-994-5559

Tanis Crosby
Executive Director YWCA Halifax
902-423-6162 ext. 230