Yellowknife has just been given a massive step forward in helping residents find affordable housing.
At 10 am on Monday, November 7th, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion, appeared at Yellowknife’s City Hall for a special announcement. He was accompanied by the Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs, Michael McLeod, Member of Parliament for Northwest Territories, Honourable Paulie Chinna, Minister Responsible for Housing NWT, Yellowknife Mayor Rebecca Alty, Kate Reid, the Board President for YWCA NWT, and Carla Smith, Director of Finance for the Yellowknife Women’s Society.
Minister Hussen himself made the announcement.
“I’m very happy to join my federal colleagues, Minister Cinna, and the Mayor, to announce a federal investment by the Government of Canada of over $23 million to create sixty-three new affordable housing units right here in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories.
“This funding is spread across two distinct housing projects in the community. The first project is located at 4904-54th Street, and will help bring the YWCA’s Lynn’s Place II project to life. Twenty-one affordable housing units will be created for women and children, and residents will have access to the critical wraparound supportive services that are needed to thrive.”
Total construction costs for Lynn’s Place II are estimated at approximately $18 million. The centre will be four levels and feature multi-purposes spaces, access to drop-in supports, and staff offices. It will exceed energy efficiency requirements and 65% of the units will be accessible/barrier free. Construction is expected to be completed in July of 2023, and families should be able to move in shortly after.
Minister Hussen continued with the second project.
“The second project is located at 4115 Franklin Avenue, and will see the former Arnica Inn turned into 42 safe and affordable housing units, bachelor apartments for at risk men and women. Support Staff and programs will be provided there by the Yellowknife Women’s Society.”
Hussen explained that funding for these projects came from various housing programs under the National Housing Strategy, which is a 72 Billion dollar program. He acknowledged that more housing investments like these are necessary to continue to support the vulnerable members of our society.
