ABBOTSFORD – New Democrat MLAs Pam Alexis and Bob D’Eith say vulnerable people in Abbotsford and Mission will have greater access to local services which will help tackle homelessness as the community recovers from the impacts of the pandemic.
“We’re taking action to ensure that people experiencing homelessness have access to the services and support they need to stay healthy and move forward,” said Pam Alexis, MLA for Abbotsford-Mission. “This is just one way New Democrats are working to address homelessness and make our communities stronger.”
The City of Abbotsford is receiving over $1.5 million in joint provincial and federal funding for the Abbotsford Emergency Weather Response/Washroom/ Drop-in Centre. Partnering with community organizations which will support Abbotsford’s Homeless Prevention and Response System, including developing an emergency weather (both heat and cold) response shelter with 15 beds for those experiencing homelessness.
“The pandemic has put greater pressure on the organizations and services that support people who are unsheltered,” said Bob D’Eith, MLA for Maple Ridge-Mission. “This funding allows us to accelerate our response to homelessness, so that as our province recovers from the impacts of COVID-19, we can create a better future for everyone.”
The City of Mission will receive nearly $700, 000 in joint provincial and federal funding for the Mobile Mission project, to help address Mission’s specific needs for available mobile laundry, showers, storage and bathrooms for people experiencing unsheltered homelessness in camp settings or unserviced, non-central areas. This would include funding two staff persons.
MLAs Alexis and D’Eith say this investment is part of the Strengthening Communities Program which is providing support to 48 communities across B.C. Over $76 million will support local governments to combat the impacts of homelessness and keep their communities safe and healthy as they recover from the pandemic.
John Horgan and the BC New Democrat government is providing the support people need to build a recovery that leaves no one behind.
Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2021MUNI0044-001589