New Westminster, BC – On Friday, October 4, 2019, the City of New Westminster, the Community Living Society (CLS), Catalyst Community Development Society, and invited guests, celebrated the opening of a unique and inclusive housing project. As a result of this partnership, and the funding from the City of New Westminster, CLS and the Province, through BC Housing, several people are now living in safe, secure and affordable homes.
“These new housing units will mean that people with disabilities and families have homes they can afford in a safe and welcoming environment,” said Judy Darcy, MLA for New Westminster. “It takes a community and it takes a province working together to build an inclusive society, and I am so grateful to all the partners who made this project a reality. We will continue to work in partnerships and invest in homes, like the new homes here in New Westminster, to help create healthy and thriving communities.”
The project includes three fully-accessible one-bedroom units for people with developmental disabilities who are supported by CLS. Community Living BC (CLBC) provided funding for the technology in the wheelchair accessible units. The Assistive Technology Developer from CLS worked with each of the individuals to customize technology that would facilitate their independence and connections to family and friends.
“Affordable and inclusive housing projects are central to creating livable communities for people with developmental disabilities who wish to live independently,” said Shane Simpson, Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction. “When our partners work together like this, they break down barriers and make life better for people living with disabilities. Together, we will continue to work to make B.C. a more inclusive place.”
In addition, there are three three-bedroom affordable rental townhomes. The townhomes currently have three families with children living in them.
This project is a major milestones in the City of New Westminster’s commitment to create more affordable housing in New Westminster. It is evidence of how partnerships can address the housing challenges many in the city face.
“The completion of the small site affordable housing project at 43 Hastings Street marks a significant accomplishment for the City of New Westminster’s Affordable Housing Strategy and our commitment to meeting the housing needs of our diverse community,” said Mayor Jonathan X. Coté. “Our partnership with the Community Living Social and Catalyst Community Development Society exemplifies how cities and non-profit organizations can work together to deliver new affordable housing options for families in New Westminster.”
As part of the opening event, Mayor Coté formally dedicated the development to Beverly Grieve, the former director of Development Services for the City of New Westminster. Ms. Grieve’s career was devoted to community planning and innovative housing ideas and this and other affordable housing projects were realized under her direction.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, all guests, were invited to view the apartments that utilize several technology applications and smart home features.
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Contact:
John Stark
Supervisor of Community Planning
City of New Westminster
604-515-3777
or
Gillian Rhodes
Chief Operating Officer
Community Living Society
604-523-0303