IN May, Surrey Homelessness and Housing Society (SHHS) launched a call for proposals to support initiatives that will reduce and prevent homelessness in Surrey. Funded projects will focus on contributing to the longer-term housing needs of priority populations in Surrey and building on continued efforts to mitigate the impact of COVID-19.
A total of $290,000 was granted to nine projects that will address SHHS’ Key Funding Priorities:
- Capital Initiatives: $157,000 (5 projects)
- Innovative Projects: $103,000 (2 projects)
- Capacity Building Initiatives $30,000 (2 projects)
SHHS’ 2021 grant recipients:
- Foundations for Social Change
- Fraser Region Aboriginal Friendship Centre Association
- Lookout Housing and Health Society
- Pacific Community Resources Society
- Phoenix Drug and Alcohol Recovery and Education Society
- Surrey Urban Mission Society
- The Elizabeth Fry Society of Greater Vancouver
- The Realistic Success Recovery Society
- Young Women’s Christian Association
“In response to the impacts of COVID-19 and increased challenges faced by priority populations and unhoused citizens, SHHS quickly launched two funding calls in 2020,” said Surrey Councillor Laurie Guerra, President of the Surrey Homelessness and Housing Society. “A total of $600,000 was granted to 30 local projects to help meet immediate and emerging needs of people experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness in Surrey. This quick action is an illustration of our commitment to address both the short and long term needs of vulnerable people our community.”
In 2020, SHHS also granted $3.9 million over 10 years to the City of Surrey in support of three major capital initiatives with long-term impact: The Olive Branch Shelter, The Cove Shelter, and The Newton Modular Housing Project. These projects provide 88 shelter beds and 40 supportive housing units for Surrey.
The SHHS’ vision is that ‘Everyone in Surrey has a Home.’ Since its inception in 2007, SHHS has granted over $7 million to support the development of Made in Surrey solutions – creating housing, programs, and partnerships that effectively respond to Surrey’s unique needs.
Visit Surreyhomeless.ca to learn more.
