Central Alberta Women’s Emergency Shelter is building a new facility to meet demand for its services.
The shelter has been operating beyond capacity for years and the new 48,000-square-facility will offer much-needed spaces for those fleeing domestic violence and to start their healing journeys.
Construction started last month on the facility that will include 50 emergency shelter beds and 40 secure transitional housing units, including 25 one-bed and 15 two-bed units. This will more than triple the current facility’s capacity and will provide leading amenities to assist in the on-going support of clients as they rebuild their lives free from domestic violence.
The project is the result of years of planning and advocacy by CAWES board of directors. It was made possible with $29.9 million from Women and Children Shelter and Transitional Housing Initiative through Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s National Co-Investment Fund. The funding will go towards design and construction costs of the new facility. Design and construction support will be provided by local partners, Stantec and Chandos Construction.
“Every Canadian deserves a safe and affordable place to call home. That is why we are investing nearly $30 million to support women and children fleeing domestic violence in Red Deer,” said federal Housing and Diversity and Inclusion Minister Ahmed Hussen.
“This investment will support the creation of a safe haven where women and their children can access critical support services as well as long-term affordable homes to build a new life. This is one of the ways our National Housing Strategy continues to ensure no one is left behind.”
CAWES will begin a campaign this year to raise the funds and resources required to equip the new facility to become operational.