The Native Friendship Centre Association celebrates official opening

December 4, 2003

ST. JOHN'S, NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR-The St. John's Native Friendship Centre Association officially opened its doors today to Aboriginal people facing homelessness in St. John's. The Association has received $818,731 from the Government of Canada's National Homelessness Initiative (NHI), and $185,000 from the Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program, which is cost-shared 75/25 between the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) and the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation (NLHC).

The new facility was officially opened today by the Honourable Claudette Bradshaw, Minister of Labour and Federal Coordinator on Homelessness, also representing the Honourable Steven Mahoney, Secretary of State responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. Minister Bradshaw was on hand to celebrate and tour the facility, newly named the Shanawdithit Centre, in memory of the last known Beothuk who died on June 6, 1829. In addition, Jack Byrne, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs and minister responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation (NLHC); Tom Rideout, Minister of Works, Services and Transportation and minister responsible for Aboriginal Affairs; St.John's Mayor Andy Wells; Aboriginal leaders and government officials offered congratulations on the celebrations.

"Native Friendship Centres across the country are providing outstanding services and support to Aboriginal people who are homeless. I am sure that this one here in St. John's will continue that tradition of great service, with a wonderful staff that really cares about the people who come here," said Minister Bradshaw. "I'm so happy that I was able to be here today to share in your celebration."

"The renovation of this complex demonstrates the Government of Canada's commitment to providing housing for Aboriginal persons. The Shanawdithit Centre is an excellent example of federal strategies and funds helping those most in need," said Steven Mahoney, Secretary of State responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. "Together we can provide safe, affordable housing for those members of our community who need it most."

"This shelter will address a very specific housing need in our province," said Minister Jack Byrne. "I'm delighted that the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation has been able to assist with getting it up and running."

Minister responsible for Aboriginal Affairs, Tom Rideout, noted: "The provision of shelter and support services for Aboriginal people who are staying in the St. John's area will be enhanced through the St. John's Friendship Centre Association's new Shanawdhit Centre. I congratulate everyone who played a role in this very important initiative."

Mayor Andy Wells said, "I am very delighted to share in the official opening of the new Shanawdithit Centre. I want to congratulate everyone associated with it on a job well done."

Winston White, Chairman of the St. John's Native Friendship Centre Association Board said, "The official opening of our shelter today is the culmination of many years of planning and hard work by many people. This day is another milestone in the efforts made by many of the volunteers who gave their time and commitment to this project over the last 20 years. Because of those volunteers, Aboriginal and other people now have a place where they will be safe and comfortable. Thank you to all for the support."

The funds invested in this project have resulted in a 20-bed emergency shelter specifically for Aboriginal people, the first of its kind in this area. The St. John's Native Friendship Centre Association provides social and advocacy services to Aboriginal people and is staffed by people who share Aboriginal cultural needs and traditions.

With particular emphasis on the safety and the cultural needs of the Aboriginal people who are staying in St. John's for a variety of reasons, this shelter will provide a range of counselling supports and assistance in the areas of accommodation, transportation, and recreation, as well as social, cultural and educational activities.

By working in partnership with community organizations, the private and voluntary sectors and other levels of government, the NHI is bringing all stakeholders together to develop local solutions that work to address particular needs and challenges faced by homeless people.

The Government of Canada launched the NHI in December 1999 to support communities' efforts to help Canadians out of homelessness. Building on the successes achieved, the February 2003 Budget announced $405 million for three years to continue the federal government's commitment to addressing homelessness in Canada, and $384 million to renew CMHC's renovation programs and preserve existing housing stock.

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For more information on the Government of Canada's National Homelessness Initiative, visit our Web site at: www.homelessness.gc.ca.

For more information:

Kim Oliver
Minister Bradshaw's office
(819) 953-5646

Joe Connors
Community Facilitator
Homelessness Initiative
(709) 772-2510

Winston White
Chairman
St. John's Native Friendship
Association Board
(709) 754-2072

Jenny Bowering
Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation
(709) 724-3055

Dawn L. Ring
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
(709) 772-5973