Minister Kent
WHITEHORSE—The Government of Yukon has agreed to assist the Vimy Heritage Housing Society (VHHS) with $50,000 to determine space and other requirements for a proposed supported independent housing facility in Whitehorse.
Part of the land included in planning for the Fifth and Rogers Street project has been identified as a potential location for the VHHS facility, should the project proposal be approved.
“Housing with services is a critical pillar in the Housing Action Plan,” Minister responsible for the Yukon Housing Corporation Stacey Hassard said. “The Vimy Heritage Housing Society proposal falls within this category because it is planned to be an independent living facility for seniors with basic supports such as meal preparation and housekeeping.”
The VHHS has been examining the feasibility of a new housing model for seniors in Yukon. Currently the Yukon government provides accommodations for seniors who need medical support in residential facilities like Copper Ridge Place, and low cost social housing with accessibility features for seniors, such as those constructed by the Yukon Housing Corporation.
“Our government has been focused on keeping seniors in their homes for as long as possible,” Minister of Health and Social Services Mike Nixon said. “This project would help fill a gap between independent living and continuing care.”
Pending legislative approval of the funding, the Department of Highways and Public Works will undertake a functional plan that will include space and structural considerations for this project.
“With the funding being allocated in the upcoming budget, we will assist the Vimy Heritage Housing Society with functional planning to help move this project forward,” Minister of Highways and Public Works Scott Kent said. “Our government has been pleased to work with the Society and we thank them for their commitment to this important project.”
“I am very pleased to see tangible progress being made on this housing proposal,” VHHS representative Ranjit Sarin said .
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Contact:
Dan Macdonald
Cabinet Communications
867-393-6470
dan.macdonald@gov.yk.ca
Doug Caldwell
Communications, Yukon Housing Corporation
867-667-5075
doug.caldwell@gov.yk.ca
