Province gives $4M for Interlake transitional housing complex

A future transitional housing complex for Indigenous women, children and LGBTTQ+ people received a $4-million funding boost from the provincial government Tuesday.

Ten studio-style apartments will be added to the project, which is being constructed in the Interlake. The Manitoba Métis Federation, which is partnering with the province on the initiative, announced the initial 10 beds last summer.

“I think it’s going to be a really… I hate to say this, a well-used (facility),” said federation spokesperson Anita Campbell. “I think that we’re going to have more women… than we can help.”

The expansion is set to be complete by early 2027, Campbell said, after a projected May grand opening for the first 10 beds.

Tenants will have their own living quarters and share community spaces including a kitchen, laundry, garden and healing areas.

Organizers are working with shelters and creating intake and security policies, Campbell said. There will be a one-year cap for tenants staying in Phase 2 beds, but they may be shifted to Phase 1 rooms — where a stay can last two years — if it’s needed and space is available.

Staff will help departing tenants plan their housing futures before they leave the complex, Campbell said.