New Surrey affordable housing for at-risk women gets federal funding

Surrey will soon see 44 new affordable homes for at-risk women.

On Thursday, the federal government announced almost $16.4 million for the project, while the B.C. government will cover operating funding over 20 years.

The site, named the Little’s Too supportive housing complex, will be staffed at all times, and have a focus on “trans, cis, and two-spirit women, and women who are struggling with substance use and who may also be struggling with their mental and spiritual wellness.”

The complex will also have food and nutrition support, with health and life skill assistance programs and will be staffed at all times.

The City of Surrey, partnered with Atira Women’s Resource Society, will develop the new housing at 9151 King George Blvd. Atira is a not-for-profit organization committed to ending violence against women.

“Atira has its roots in Surrey going back almost 40 years and has been fighting for more housing, in particular supportive housing, for women since we opened our first transition house in 1987,” said Janice Abbott, CEO, Atira Women’s Resource Society.

“We are grateful for the ongoing and lasting support of the City in all of our work, and excited to be offering 44 women a place to call home.”

Related link:

• Vancouver social housing concerns in Kits addressed by advocates

• Vancouver’s Joyce-Collingwood plan: How will the Filipino community be affected?

• Vancouver 2050 plan before council, critic slams housing promises

“Everyone deserves a safe and affordable place to call home,” said Randeep Sarai, MLA for Surrey Centre in a statement.

“This investment … is a crucial step in offering support, stability, and safety for residents of this new supportive housing complex. ”

Rachna Singh, MLA for Surrey-Green Timber, says this type of housing gives foundation to women currently at-risk of homelessness.

“These new homes with supports will give women experiencing homelessness in Surrey the chance to make a lasting change in their lives,” said Singh.

“We have seen how successful supportive housing has been both for residents and neighbourhoods in Surrey, and we’re proud to work with all levels of government and our non-profit partners to be providing more of these much-needed homes.”

The federal funding is part of the Rapid Housing Initiative (RHI), created to help housing problems for the most vulnerable in the country.

According to a government statement, “units are intended to be constructed within 12 months of funding.”