A $5.1-million provincial investment will replace aging townhomes in Prince Rupert with a new housing development for women and children, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General and Minister Responsible for Housing Rich Coleman announced today.

"Transitional housing combines an affordable home with caring people who help women connect with the resources and services they need to overcome the challenges life has brought them," said Coleman. "The support makes the difference - this housing helps the individual, their family and the community."

Redevelopment at the provincially owned site began last year when residents of the aging Moresby Townhomes found other subsidized housing options and the existing buildings were demolished. Construction is now underway on the new North Coast Transition Society (NCTS) development that will provide 23 units of transitional and supportive housing.

"This new housing means our community will be a healthier and safer place to live for women and their children," said Prince Rupert Mayor Jack Mussallem. "As a life-long resident of this city, and on behalf of Prince Rupert city council and our residents, I thank the Province for their commitment to the NCTS development as it will improve the lives of many women and their families."

Transition housing provides temporary housing with support services for up to two years, giving women and children time to stabilize their lives before moving on to more independent, permanent forms of housing. Once complete, the housing will be operated and managed by the NCTS.

"As a not-for-profit organization committed to providing services and programs for women and their children, it's exciting to see construction underway for this important new community resource," said Christine White, NCTS executive director. "When the development is complete, we will be able to make further improvements in our ability to provide support to women and children in Prince Rupert and in the surrounding areas."

In 2010-11, B.C.'s budget for social housing is approximately $562 million, more than four times as much as in 2001. In Prince Rupert, the province will invest more than $2 million this year to provide subsidized housing and rent supplements for low income individuals, seniors and families.

For a comprehensive look at provincial programs and services to address homelessness, visit: www.bchousing.org/breakingthecycle