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Homestead Lodge Expansion Proposal Finalized
Homestead Lodge Expansion Proposal Finalized
Michelle Pinon - News Advertiser
There is a critical need for affordable housing in Alberta, and the provincial government is investing millions of dollars to help address the current situation.
Jason Nixon, Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services, announced just over a month ago that it was opening the next round of applications with up to $150 million being made available to public, non-profit, and private sector housing providers.
The funds fall under Alberta’s Affordable Housing Partnership Program (AHPP). According to the province, since 2022, AHPP has invested about $189 million to support more than 1,500 housing units and more than 300 shelter spaces in 15 communities.
Keeping a close eye on the closing date of Jan. 31, 2025, are members of the MD of Minburn Foundation, who are going to submit an application for an expansion and renovation project for Homestead Lodge in Vegreville under the program.
Jerrold Lemko, Chair of the MD of Minburn Foundation and Vegreville Town Councillor, said the proposed project is very much needed in the community. The original part of the lodge dates back to the sixties and the need to accommodate more seniors from Vegreville and outlying areas continues to grow.
Lemko recently reported to members of council that the Foundation was close to submitting it funding package. “There are a number of communities seeking funding for this. So, we are going to have to advocate to our MLA for her support in getting it built here.”
Members of the Foundation board began looking at expanding the seniors’ facility last year to 62 new units. All that remains is to receive official approval of the final submission from all the member municipalities of the MD of Minburn Foundation. Those municipalities include: County of Minburn, Town of Vegreville, Village of Innisfree and Village of Mannville.
