September 16, 2016
New Seniors Housing Project Celebrates Grand Opening in Winkler Today
A new, 96-unit seniors’ housing project in Winkler has officially opened its doors to tenants. Manitoba Finance Minister Cameron Friesen, on behalf of Manitoba Families Minister Scott Fielding, and Parliamentary Secretary Terry Duguid, on behalf of the Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and Minister Responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), made the announcement today in Winkler.
“The grand opening of this building is an important milestone for seniors and the entire community of Winkler,” said Friesen. “We know that seniors live healthier and more active lives when surrounded by family and friends in a familiar neighbourhood. Manitoba’s new government is a proud partner and we’d also like to recognize the dedication of the community members who have invested so much in making this property a reality.”
The eight-storey, $26-million Buhler Active Living Centre (BALC) features an accessible design, with 48 affordable housing units, 24 market life-lease units and 24 supportive housing units. The affordable housing units include 18 one-bedroom and 30 two-bedroom suites. The main floor includes a seniors’ activity centre.
“All Canadians need and deserve housing that is safe, adequate and affordable,” said Duguid. “Our government is committed to improving the quality of life for Canadians, including seniors, by providing better places to live. Congratulations to everyone involved in this new complex and welcome home to the residents.”
BALC Inc. is a non-profit organization formed in 2012 to oversee the design, construction and ongoing operation of this housing complex. The BALC is a seniors community able to meet the changing health and wellness needs of senior residents. Unique programming will offer independent living and independent living with assistance.
“This project was a labor of love,” said Walter Siemens, board chair, BALC Inc. “Despite the many challenges on the road to completion, the board of directors never gave up. They were determined to provide a unique facility that was much needed and allow seniors in the City of Winkler and surrounding region an opportunity to age in place.”
More than $2.8 million in funding for this project is sourced from the Investment in Affordable Housing agreement between the governments of Canada and Manitoba.
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) has been Canada’s authority on housing for over 70 years. As Canada’s authority on housing, CMHC contributes to the stability of the housing market and financial system, provides support for Canadians in housing need, and offers unbiased housing research and advice to Canadian governments, consumers and the housing industry. Prudent risk management, strong corporate governance and transparency are cornerstones of CMHC’s operations. For more information, call 1-800-668-2642 or visit www.cmhc.ca.
For more information about housing programs and services in Manitoba, visit www.gov.mb.ca/housing. For more information about BALC, visit www.buhleralcentre.com.
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