YWCA Metro Vancouver breaks ground for new Surrey affordable housing

February 7, 2011

Surrey, BC: YWCA Metro Vancouver is proud to announce that YWCA CEO Janet Austin, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development and MLA for Surrey-Panorama, the Honorable Stephanie Cadieux and City of Surrey Mayor Dianne Watts jointly broke ground today to mark the official launch of Surrey’s new affordable housing construction for single mothers. YWCA Alder Gardens is located at 13788 71st Avenue, Surrey.

YWCA Metro Vancouver is pleased to be partnering with BC Housing and the City of Surrey to build 36 supportive housing units for single mothers, with priority given to Surrey residents.

The City of Surrey has provided the land and BC Housing will pay for all construction costs. The YWCA will contribute $1 million towards construction through its capital campaign and will manage and operate the building upon completion, with financial support from BC Housing.

“Safe, affordable housing, combined with holistic support services offered by the YWCA provides the foundation for women living in poverty to reach a successful transition to economic independence. Thanks to the generous support of our donors and government partners, the YWCA is helping to improve the lives of women and children in our community,” said YWCA CEO Janet Austin.

In keeping with the YWCA’s commitment to sustainability, the building is designed to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold standards.

YWCA Metro Vancouver is a registered charity, providing a range of integrated services for women and their families and those seeking to improve the quality of their lives. From early learning and care to housing, health and fitness, employment services and leadership, YWCA Metro Vancouver touches lives in communities throughout Metro Vancouver.

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For media inquiries, please contact:

Puspa Affandi
Marketing Communications Specialist           
YWCA Metro Vancouver               
604 895 5852
paffandi@ywcavan.org