October 16, 2020
Governments Invest in New Affordable Housing Project for Seniors in Gimli
Watch news conference
Construction is nearly complete on a new, $12.9-million affordable housing project in Gimli for seniors who want to live independently in their community while enjoying the natural beauty of the region, federal Families, Children and Social Development Minister Ahmed Hussen and Manitoba Families Minister Heather Stefanson announced today.
“Every Canadian deserves a safe and affordable place to call home,” said Hussen. “Senior citizens have brought so many contributions to our society that making sure that they have a safe and affordable home is one way to give back to them. Now more than ever, it is important that we come together to support our seniors. This is why our government is proud to support projects such as this one.”
“This is an important milestone for the community, for Manitoba seniors and for our government,” said Stefanson, at an event in Gimli today. “Strategic investments like this will make an incredible difference in the lives of seniors who live in Gimli, ensuring they have another affordable housing option that is close to their families, community organizations and services they rely on.”
The new Gimli Seniors’ Residence will be a four-storey, 48,000-sq.-ft. complex featuring 40 one-bedroom and two-bedroom rental units. The affordable, independent-living complex for people aged 55-plus will be conveniently located next to a seniors centre and other amenities to help keep residents active and connected to the community.
Community support for the project has been led by the Gimli Seniors’ Residence (GSR) group. Once it is complete, the Manitoba government will retain ownership of the building and will establish a sponsor-management arrangement with the GSR group to handle the operations of the property.
“This project means that 40 more families can choose Gimli as the place they would like to live,” said Lina Allegro, GSR group president. “We started our work with many stakeholders in 2011. Today, we have the privilege of naming the apartment complex built by the federal and provincial governments and supported by the RM of Gimli.”
Some units will offer accessible features to support seniors who may have mobility issues, ensuring they can continue to live in the community. It will also offer a shared multi-purpose room, common room, kitchen and outdoor patio for tenants. All units will be available at affordable rates.
Recognizing the importance of affordable housing for seniors in the community, the Rural Municipality of Gimli donated the land and has been involved throughout the design process. The RM will help offset property taxes for the complex for the next 10 years.
“The RM of Gimli is very grateful to the provincial and federal governments for their support,” said Mayor Lynn Greenberg, Rural Municipality of Gimli. “Without them, this important housing project would not have happened. This will be an important addition to our community and will benefit many seniors who want to call Gimli home.”
Construction is expected to be complete in early 2021, with the first tenants expected in the spring, Stefanson noted. The building will follow the province’s accessible design standards and will exceed the requirements set out by Manitoba Hydro’s Power Smart designation for new buildings.
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