April 27, 2010
$1.5 MILLION FOR SENIORS' SUPPORTIVE HOUSING IN BURNS LAKE

BURNS LAKE - The Province provided a $1.5-million grant to renovate 25 apartments for seniors at Heritage Manor in Burns Lake.

"In order to meet the housing needs of our aging population, the Province is looking at innovative ways to provide safe, affordable and supportive housing," said John Rustad, MLA for Nechako Lakes. "Instead of moving seniors away from Heritage Manor, we have upgraded the building and provided on-site support services so they can continue living in their current homes."

In addition to the $1.5-million grant to renovate the 25 apartments, the Province will provide $58,220 in annual operating funding for support services to 12 of the apartments, which includes 24-hour on-site staff, light housekeeping, meals, and social and recreational activities. The Village of Burns Lake provided a reduction of levies and reimbursement for building permit costs for the renovations at Heritage Manor.

"Burns Lake boasts a diverse population, including families who have lived here for generations," said Village of Burns Lake Mayor Bernice Magee. "We want our seniors to have access to housing with the support services they need available on site, and they will now find this at Heritage Manor."

Renovations included installing a new elevator, a fire-suppression system and fire alarm upgrades. In addition, accessibility features were installed in all 25 apartments including walk-in showers, bathroom grab bars, improved lighting in common areas, and other security and safety features. The existing common room was converted into a dining room and kitchen.

Heritage Manor, managed and operated by Lakes District Senior Citizen Housing Association (LDSCHA), is a two-storey wood frame building with 18 studio apartments and seven one-bedroom apartments, plus a dining room and kitchen. LDSCHA was formed in 1962 to provide affordable housing for low-to moderate-income seniors. The non-profit charitable society manages three seniors' homes, Tweedsmuir House, Carroll Cottage and Heritage Manor.

"The new renovations and support services have given an added quality of living and choice for our residents," said Roberta Adams, administrator for Lakes District Senior Citizen Housing Association. "The tenants receiving the new services appear to be very pleased and we have received many compliments on the renovations. The elevator has allowed tenants to move between the floors of the building, and it is easier for tenants to socialize. The existing common room was very dark and gloomy before the renovations, but now it is a warm and welcoming area."

The Province has exceeded its commitment in 2007 to upgrade or convert up to 750 subsidized housing units to supportive housing for seniors. In 2010-11, the Province will invest over $562 million to provide affordable housing and fight homelessness - more than four times as much as in 2001.

Through Housing Matters BC, the Province is addressing a range of housing needs, from homelessness to affordable rental housing and homeownership. To find out more about affordable housing in B.C., visit www.bchousing.org.

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