NEW WESTMINSTER – New Democrat MLAs Aman Singh and Jennifer Whiteside say vulnerable people in New West will have greater access to local services which will help tackle homelessness as the community recovers from the impacts of the pandemic.

“The pandemic has highlighted existing issues of inequality that contribute to homelessness,” said Aman Singh, MLA for Richmond-Queensborough. “As we continue our strong recovery, this funding is one of many actions we’re taking to ensure the most vulnerable in our community are supported now and into the future.”

New Westminster is receiving $446,083 in joint provincial and federal funding for several actions, including enhanced drop-in programs, meal services, and outreach for people experiencing homelessness in the city. The proposed plan would apply an Indigenous lens to service delivery and engage people with lived and living experience to provide input.

“Our government is working to address homelessness from all angles, including creating more supportive and affordable housing,” said Jennifer Whiteside, MLA for New Westminster. “Today’s announcement will mean better services will be available to people on the ground, so they can stay healthier and safer while accessing supports.”

The MLAs 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 are providing the support people need to build a recovery that leaves no one behind.

Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/25133