The YWCA Lethbridge and District will not pursue a new contract for its permanent supportive housing program after it expires at the end of this month. The Supportive Housing Women’s Residence Program will shut down as of March 31 and officials say the organization is working with other supportive housing providers to transition residents from the downtown building to other locations in and around Lethbridge.
“This was an extremely difficult decision that we know impacts multiple facets throughout our community. Our housing first and harm reduction approaches are about supporting women where they need us most. However, the constraints of the program model and associated available funding do not allow us to meet the complex needs of each of these women on a sustainable basis,” reads a news release from the YWCA.
The organization says it will continue to provide support for women and their families who are fleeing domestic abuse through YWCA Harbour House. It will also continue to provide support to youth through the Hestia Homes program
“This is a difficult time for our team, and we look forward to continued collaboration and
discussions with sector colleagues as we assess and respond to the changing needs of
vulnerable women in our community,” the news release says.