More Housing Support for Those Living With Mental Illness and Addiction Challenges

People living with mental illness and addictions now have access to new affordable housing and support programming in the Whitney Pier area.

Derek Mombourquette, MLA Sydney-Whitney Pier, on behalf of Joanne Bernard, Minister responsible for Housing Nova Scotia, joined MP Mark Eyking, on behalf of Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and the Minister responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, today, Jan. 13, to celebrate the opening of eight new affordable housing units provided for low-income individuals who need supports to live in the community.

"One of the greatest needs for people living with, or recovering from, mental illness or addictions is safe, affordable housing," said Mr. Mombourquette. "These new homes serve as the foundation to help people get the health care and community-based support they need, while encouraging their independence."

"The Government of Canada is proud to support the construction of eight affordable housing units in the Whitney Pier area of Sydney that will help prevent and reduce homelessness in Nova Scotia," said Mr. Eyking.

"Every segment of our society must be treated with dignity and respect and be given the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution. Our government is committed to making communities stronger through projects like this one."

The multi-unit residential property features eight one-bedroom units and offers its residents supportive programming based on their needs.

It is operated by Share, Support and Recovery Inc., a community organization focused on creating opportunities to increase the independence of people living with, and recovering from, mental health and addiction challenges, through education, employment, housing and social engagement.

"The contributions we're highlighting today from the provincial and federal governments, along with the Cape Breton Regional Hospital Foundation, bolster our mission," said Steve Lilley, chair of the board for Share, Support and Recovery Inc. "Continued support for this initiative from all levels of government and our partners shows a commitment to the people who need help."

The Whitney Pier development is cost-shared between the provincial and federal governments with $200,000 in funding from the Affordable Housing New Rental Program.

Additional financial contributions include $400,000 from the Cape Breton Regional Hospital Foundation and $200,000 from the Government of Canada's Homelessness Partnering Strategy.

Housing Nova Scotia also donated a parcel of land for the project.

Over the last 10 years, 35 supportive housing apartments have been established in Sydney, North Sydney and Glace Bay through similar partnerships.