Union Gospel Mission (UGM) has broken ground for it’s new 135-bed Women and Family Recovery and Housing Centre at 616 E. Cordova Street, Vancouver. UGM is a non-profit society that has been feeding hope and changing the lives of men, women and children since 1940.
The new Centre will provide housing and support for region’s vulnerable. Funding for the project is provided by the provincial government, federal government, City of Vancouver, Streetohome Foundation, and various private donations.
“Through the National Housing Strategy, our Government is providing assistance to those who need it most here in Vancouver, especially women and families,” says Hon. Hedy Fry, P.C., Member of Parliament for Vancouver Centre. “We believe everyone deserves an opportunity to succeed and this is why we are proud to support this amazing project. UGM’s Women and Families Centre expansion will be a safe and affordable place for some of the most vulnerable Canadians to finally call home.”
“This new building will not only save lives, but change the trajectory of entire families for generations,” says UGM President Bill Mollard. “It means fewer children in poverty, fewer women on the street, and a future for families who are now struggling to find housing.”
The project consists of four major components: recovery and stabilization sleeping units for women and babies; subsidized rental housing (studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom and three-bedroom units); two childcare areas (one for infants and one for toddlers); a youth drop-in centre; and UGM’s office and support services.