Transitional Housing Facility in Brandon Set to Open in December

A new transitional housing facility in Brandon, located on 16th Street North, is nearing completion and is expected to open its doors in December 2024. The project, overseen by the John Howard Society of Brandon, features a range of living spaces designed to support individuals transitioning out of correctional facilities and those in need of stable housing.

Construction began in July 2024, with significant progress made on the upper levels, where bedrooms, bathrooms, and kitchens are taking shape. Initially slated for completion in June 2024, the opening was delayed due to construction setbacks. A recent visit to the site revealed the installation of full kitchens and bathrooms in large suites on the third floor, with essential plumbing fixtures already in place.

Ross Robinson, the executive director of the John Howard Society of Brandon, highlighted the speed of construction since the project broke ground. “For me, it seems like it’s been lightning speed,” he remarked, indicating that despite recent slowdowns, the progress has been substantial. Special design features, intended to create a welcoming environment, have added time to the construction timeline, according to Robinson.

Community Impact and Features

The facility will house a total of 24 units, comprising 16 smaller suites equipped with half-bathrooms and 8 larger suites that include full kitchens and bathrooms. The addition of these units is expected to fill crucial gaps in the local housing continuum. Shannon Saltarelli, the community housing and wellness coordinator for the City of Brandon, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating, “This is going to have a really meaningful impact in our community.”

Visitors will be able to access the ground level, which includes rooms for family visits and a lounge area. The facility will be secure-access, staffed with two personnel at all times to ensure safety. Entry will be available for individuals on day parole through the Correctional Service of Canada, those released from the Brandon Correctional Centre, and individuals selected through the community’s coordinated access process.

Funding and Future Operations

The John Howard Society of Brandon secured significant funding to support this project: $5 million from the federal government and $4 million from the Manitoba government. The City of Brandon has also contributed by providing the land and facilitating zoning for the facility.

As the project approaches its completion, the job posting for the director of the facility has closed, with candidates now being shortlisted for interviews. Full-time staff, casual workers, and a designated cook will be employed to ensure smooth operations once the facility opens.

Robinson and Saltarelli emphasized the power of collaboration in bringing this project to fruition, noting that it represents a pivotal step towards enhancing supportive housing options in Brandon. The transitional housing facility is poised to make a significant difference in the lives of those it serves, creating a brighter future for many in the community.