Brendan Hanley
Brendan Hanley
Member of Parliament for Yukon
Federal government supports projects for Veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness
November 12, 2024
Surrey, British Columbia, November, 12, 2024 – The federal government is partnering with two organizations to support Veterans experiencing or at imminent risk of homelessness in British Columbia and the Yukon. Randeep Sarai, Member of Parliament for Surrey Centre and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Veterans Affairs, Melissa De Genova, Director of Development Partnerships for VRS Communities, and Valerie MacGregor, Board Chair of the BC/Yukon Command of the Royal Canadian Legion Foundation, announced more than $9.3 million for the projects through the Veterans Homelessness Program. With a federal investment of over $4.7 million, the VRS Communities’ Affordable Housing Program at Legion Veterans Village will provide eligible Veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness in the Metro Vancouver area with financial assistance through rent supplements, as well as access to wrap-around services and counselling support. This program includes resources to help Veterans with disabilities access care and live independently in their communities. Additionally, the program offers temporary housing for Veterans travelling to Metro Vancouver for essential medical or rehabilitation services, ensuring they can access the care necessary for their health and recovery. Through the BC/Yukon Command of the Royal Canadian Legion Foundation, a federal investment of over $4.5 million for the Legion Foundation Rent Supplement Program will provide financial assistance to eligible Veterans and their families experiencing or at risk of homelessness in British Columbia and the Yukon. This will include supports such as rent supplements, utility payments, rental deposit assistance, and wrap-around support referrals. Addressing homelessness is an essential part of Canada’s Housing Plan and this program will help do that for Veterans, who have served our country courageously and selflessly.

Quotes

“Veterans have served our country proudly. These services are about being there for Veterans when they need us. These two projects will provide wrap-around supports and rent supplements, helping to ensure that all Veterans in our communities have access to housing and support.” Randeep Sarai, Member of Parliament for Surrey Centre and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Veterans Affairs on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities 
“In the Yukon and across Canada, we recognize that those who served our country deserve more than just our gratitude—they deserve a safe place to call home. This investment ensures that veterans facing homelessness, or are at risk, can find the stability and support they need. Our commitment is to ensure that every veteran feels valued and secure in the community they helped protect, with access to the necessary resources and care for a fulfilling and dignified life.” Brendan Hanley, Member of Parliament for Yukon
"The VRS Veterans Affordable Housing Program offers so much more than housing. Built on a model of wrap-around support, this comprehensive program is designed to empower Veterans who are at risk of or experiencing homelessness. By providing integrated housing along with essential health and wellness resources, we’re helping Veterans build skills, foster resilience, and achieve independence. Many Veterans in this program will be eligible to transition into housing outside the program, whether at Legion Veterans Village or within the broader community, as they reintegrate into civilian life." Ken Fraser, Executive Director, VRS Communities 
“The Legion Foundation believes that one homeless Veteran is one too many. We are excited to be part of this initiative to end Veteran homelessness and look forward to helping Veterans across BC and the Yukon.” Valerie MacGregor, Board Chair, BC/Yukon Command of the Royal Canadian Legion Foundation 

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