Nethmi’s Story: Nothing can beat a good Sri Lankan rice and curry

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Nethmi joined COR in 2023. Originally from Sri Lanka, she moved to Regina to pursue her Bachelor in Social Work at the University of Regina.  Sri Lanka is a beautiful island in South Asia, which is known for its stunning landscape and diverse culture. It’s also famous for Ceylon tea! Sri Lankan hospitality is known for its warmth and genuine kindness. Visitors are often welcomed with open arms into homes, where sharing a meal is a cherished tradition. From rice and curry combinations to street food like hoppers (pancakes) and kottu roti (chopped roti with vegetables and meat), each bite tells a story of heritage and regional diversity.

Nethmi took a leap of faith to immigrate to Canada after several conversations and research about Canada with her husband. What attracted them to choose Canada were the many opportunities offered to immigrants. Canada is also known for offering high quality education and research opportunities.

Nethmi arrived to Canada alone and her husband came after. Nethmi confessed that coming to Canada on her own without any support system was very challenging. “It was winter when I arrived and coming to a new country without any friends or family wasn’t easy at all! I still remember how I called back home and told them that I wanted to go back home on the first night,” shared Nethmi.

Like many who make Saskatchewan their home, the biggest cultural shock is indeed the cold weather. Nethmi really struggled with the climate, sharing that she was not equipped for the Canadian winter. The clothes she brought from Sri Lanka were simply not good enough for the cold weather.

Nethmi expressed that she felt homesick and really missed her country, mainly her family and friends. She also missed Sri Lankan food. She is always looking forward to visit her home country for a vacation in order to indulge in the cultural food. “Nothing can beat a good Sri Lankan rice and curry,” Nethmi shared proudly.

Despite the cultural shock and the challenges that come with immigrating to a new country, Nethmi said that immigrating to Canada was the best decision for her husband and herself. “It is nice to be independent, it wasn’t easy, but it is worth it. I learned so many things and it’s a new experience and a good place for my personal growth. The opportunity for me to pursue a better education with greater career opportunities will help me to have a good quality of life,” shared Nethmi.

Canadians are recognised for their sense of hospitality and their friendly nature. Nethmi shared that one thing she loved was how welcoming and friendly people are in Canada. She said she feels more freedom to do whatever she wants to, without people’s judgement.

Nethmi confessed that after learning about Gentle Teaching, she felt compelled to apply to work at COR. While doing her research about COR, she knew that she wanted to be part of our organization. “Within a culture of gentleness, the relationship with individuals supported becomes more genuine and trusting. The connection becomes more emotional, rather than control. And something I’ve learned is the more the individuals trust you, the relationship grows. Gentle Teaching also emphasizes to support poeple with unconditional respect,” said Nethmi.

Asked about what traditions and celebration she likes in Canada, Nethmi shared that Christmas has been really meaningful to her. “Even though myself being a Buddhist, Christmas also had been a celebration where everyone comes together in the spirit of sharing. Being in Canada, I have celebrated Christmas once and it was amazing to be together with friends. I love Christmas shopping and sending little gifts to my family and friends. That’s one of my favourite things to do during the Christmas season.”

Thank you Nethmi for choosing Saskatchewan and for choosing COR. We are grateful to have you a part of the COR family.

Recipient of the 2024 Canadian Workplace Well-Being Award

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Celebrating the CWWA 2024 Winners!

The Canadian Positive Psychology Association (CPPA) and Workplace Strategies for Mental Health with Mary Ann Baynton are thrilled to announce the 2024 Canadian Workplace Well-Being Awards winners.

This award program recognizes and celebrates outstanding achievements in Canadian organizations that strengthen workplace well-being, employee mental health and psychological safety. The CPPA encourages organizations to integrate the principles and evidence-based practices of positive psychology into their HR strategy to support employee engagement, employee satisfaction and retention.

“The judging panel of ten experts in positive psychology and well-being were extremely impressed with the innovative programs, resources and support networks created by the 2024 winning organizations to foster employee mental health, well-being and sense of belonging”, says Louisa Jewell, President and Founder of the Canadian Positivity Association. “What is striking is the deep level of commitment to support employees to feel heard and understood when it comes to their well-being at work”, Jewell adds.

Some key patterns emerged amongst the winning organizations. Here are a few standouts:

  • They take a strategic approach where well-being and psychological safety is part of their organizational HR Strategy;
  • They invest in providing supports, enhanced mental health benefits and resources to help employees proactively manage their psychological health; and
  • They are intentional about creating a culture where there is trust, and employees feel heard, cared for, valued, and have a sense of belonging.

Here are the 2024 Canadian Workplace Well-Being Winners: (CWWA Awards) 

Nonprofit/Charity Sector

Canuck Place Children’s Hospice (Vancouver, BC)

Creative Options Regina (Regina, SK)

Kids Help Phone (Toronto, ON)

Small Private/Public Sector

Sklar Wilton and Associates (Toronto, ON)

Large Private/Public Sector

Best Buy (Vancouver, BC)

First West Credit Union (Langley, BC)

Metrolinx (Toronto, ON)

TransLink (Vancouver, BC)

 

The panel of expert judges for the 2024 Canadian Workplace Well-Being Awards included:

Shelly Bischoff, Workplace Consultant, Founder & Director, Ptolemy & Associates Inc.;

Dr. Marie-Hélène Budworth, Associate Professor, School of Human Resources Management, York University;

Dr. Elaine Cook, Manager, Humanistic Education and Training, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital;

Lorie Corcuera, Director, Learning & Development, MineSense Technologies;

Carrie Fletcher, Executive Vice President, People Culture & Strategy, St. Joseph’s Health System;

Rob Francis, Founder & Principal Consultant, Francis Organizational Consultants;

Jon Rosemberg, Founder & CEO, Strongpoint Group;

Sylvie Santoro, Senior Director of People & Culture, Datavalet Technologies – Montreal;

Andrew Soren, CEO & Founder, Eudaimonic by Design, and

Paula Toledo, Well-being Consultant & Artist Ode to Wonder.

 

Learn more about the CWWA’s.

Japleen’s Story: My involvement with COR has truly enriched my life

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Japleen Kaur immigrated to Canada from Chandigarh, India in 2022. Chandigarh is the capital of the northern Indian state of Punjab and Haryana. Picturesquely located in the foothills of the Shivaliks, it is known as one of the best experiments in urban planning and modern architecture of the twentieth century in India.

Japleen set her eyes on Canada to pursue her education as her brother, Param, was already in Canada.  She also choose Canada for the breathtaking natural beauty and vibrant multicultural atmosphere.

Like thousands of immigrants that choose Canada to settle down, Japleen shares that she wanted to be in a place where she could learn from diverse cultures and meet people from all around the world.  “Knowing my brother was here, made the thought of adjusting much easier, as I would have a piece of family close by. Also, I knew that Canada respects Registered Nurses (RNs) and offers a manageable patient-to-nurse ratio, which was a significant factor for me since I had worked as an RN in India for about two years and the work pressure there was overwhelming. I believed that moving to Canada would allow me to pursue my passion for nursing in a more supportive environment,” said Japleen.

Japleen’s strong educational background helped her secure admission into a one-year postgraduate certificate programme in Gerontology at a college in Toronto. Japleen is convinced that the quality of education and the opportunities she has found here make it all worthwhile. “Navigating the lengthy immigration process and formalities was made easier with some guidance and a lot of determination” shared Japleen.

Japleen shared that there were definitely a few surprises when she moved from Chandigarh to Canada. “One of the biggest cultural shocks was how different social interactions are here. People in Canada are more individualistic and casual in their relationships, which is quite different from the community-oriented and formal interactions I was used to back home,” said Japleen. She also shared that another thing that caught her off guard was the level of politeness and patience in everyday situations—like how people form orderly lines and wait for their turn while grocery shopping.

The cold weather was also a big cultural shock for Japleen. “Coming from a place with mild winters, dealing with the extreme cold here was (and still is) a major adjustment. On the positive side, I’ve found Canadians to be incredibly friendly and welcoming, which has really helped me feel more at home despite the cultural differences” shared Japleen.

Japleen was introduced to COR by her brother, Param.

“My journey to COR has been incredibly positive. It has provided me with a sense of community and support that has been helpful in my adjustment to life in Canada. I love COR because, at the end of the day, I feel like I’ve made a difference in someone’s life, which not many jobs offer. I feel appreciated and valued, and I am grateful to be part of the COR family,” shared Japleen.

Japleen also shared that she has been experiencing personal growth and feels like a completely different person than she was a year ago. “My involvement with COR has truly enriched my life, and I’m excited about what the future holds for me”, shared Japleen.

Japleen also confessed that working at COR has its own benefit. She shared that she is a very quiet person and social interactions sometimes gives her anxiety, but at COR, she feels more at ease because everyone is so kind and appreciative, which significantly reduces her anxiety. “I feel like I’m getting better, if not the best, learning each day through my journey at COR”, shared Japleen.

Living far from family also comes with its own challenges, Japleen shared. “The sense of isolation and the lack of immediate support are much tougher than I had imagined. There were some extremely difficult days when I was living in Toronto all by myself. Having family around makes a huge difference, and it’s something I deeply miss.”

Asked if she would choose Canada all over again, Japleen replied positively. “I’d choose Canada all over again – despite the challenges, I am determined to become a Registered Nurse (RN) here, and I believe Canada offers the best opportunities to achieve this dream. My journey has been tough, but I’m confident it will be worth it in the end. The education, professional opportunities, and support I’ve found here are unmatched,” shared Japleen.

Thank you, Japleen, for choosing Canada and COR. You make a difference every day and we are proud of you.

Sohani’s Story: Kindness Makes a Difference

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Sohani Shaikh was born in the dynamic city of Anand, Gujarat, known as the “Milk city of India”. The region is renowned for more than just milk production. It is also home to the world’s largest statue, the Statue of Unity, a symbol of pride and unity. In August 2023, Sohani moved from India to Regina in order to pursue her education.

Through her studies in the Disability Support Worker program at Saskatchewan Polytechnic,  Sohani met COR’s Employee Experience Advisors during an in-class presentation. Sohani expressed that she felt the need to to be part of COR when she heard about COR’s central purpose. Program instructors encouraged her to apply to complete her practicum with COR — she was successful in also becoming an employee as well! During her practicum, Sohani expressed that she learned so much and accredits her good grades to the experience and training she received from COR.

Sohani recently completed her program, receiving her Disability Support Worker Certificate. She is proud of the knowledge she has learned and the difference she is making in the lives of individuals with disabilities. Sohani said she chose Canada to complete her education as Canada has a good educational system and there are many great opportunities available.

Like many new immigrants, everything is not always sunshine and roses! Sohani said her biggest culture shock was the cold weather — she has never experienced that type of cold winter back home. She also said that coming here as a young adult makes her miss her family a lot. Before coming to Canada, she had never lived alone. “I didn’t even know how to cook when I came here. But I am proud of myself for taking this opportunity to become more independent. I am also mentally and emotionally stronger than before,” said Sohani.

She also shared that she was fortunate to have her brother here in Regina. He helped her a lot in settling in to her new life in Regina. “My instructors at Saskpolytech were also very supportive and I could count on them when I had questions or needed help.” Sohani shared that she misses the street food in India. “While we have a variety of restaurants in Regina, street food comes with its own flavour and it’s difficult to find the same type of food here in Regina.”

“Everyone at COR is very supportive. People treat me with kindness and are so welcoming. This makes a big difference to newcomers.”

Sohani shares that she feels privileged to work in an organization where the philosophy of Gentle Teaching is embedded at the core of everything we do.

“The culture of gentle teaching is very unique and when you start to practise it in your professional life, you see the need to have it in all aspects of one’s life. Practising Gentle Teaching is about creating long lasting relationships. When I see support workers that no longer work at COR come visit the people we support, and the love you see on everyone faces, it’s beautiful. Working at COR is more than just a job. It’s creating trusting relationships where everyone feels valued and appreciated. I also feel a sense of belonging as diversity is celebrated. For example, the celebration of Eid Ul Fitr at COR provides a place where people can come and celebrate with each other; meeting and sharing information, it makes the connection stronger. I feel included and like I belong here.”

Thank you, Sohani, for choosing to work at COR. We are grateful to have you a part of our organization and you make a difference just by being you.

Proud Host of the 2024 Gentle Teaching International Conference

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On October 1-3, 2024, COR proudly hosted the 2024 Gentle Teaching International (GTI) conference, the premier gathering of people from around the world committed to providing positive and proactive support in health, mental health, disability and educational sectors. This event marked the 23rd anniversary of the conference and brought together 400+ participants from across the world for over three-days. The conference presented a unique opportunity to learn about the research, best practices, case studies and lessons learned on creating and sustaining a culture of support for vulnerable populations in varied environments.

“Thank you to the many sponsors, supporters, volunteers, attendees, speakers and contributors. We are truly grateful for your support. GTI2024 was a tremendous success because of you!” – Michael Lavis, CEO

CTV News: Conference aims to care for vulnerable people

https://regina.ctvnews.ca/video/c3005374-conference-aims-to-care-for-vulnerable-people

CBC Radio: Non-profit brings Gentle Teaching to Saskatchewan

https://www.cbc.ca/listen/live-radio/1-66-the-morning-edition-sask/clip/16098819-non-profit-brings-gentle-teaching-saskatchewan

Recipient of Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce ABEX Non-Profit Impact Award (2024)

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On September 21, 2024, COR was named the inaugural recipient of the Non-Profit Impact Award at the 2024 Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce ABEX Award Celebration held in Saskatoon.

Saskatchewan Business Leaders Shine at the 2024 ABEX Awards Gala

September 21, 2024

Saskatoon, SK – The Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the recipients of its 2024 ABEX Awards, celebrating the province’s most influential and impactful businesses. Hosted at TCU Place in Saskatoon on September 21, the gala brought together over 500 attendees to recognize the contributions of Saskatchewan’s businesses and leaders across various sectors.

The prestigious awards, presented by Conexus Credit Union, highlighted the outstanding achievements of Saskatchewan’s businesses, acknowledging their significant role in driving the province’s economic and community development. The Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce extends its gratitude to all sponsors, recipients, finalists, and attendees for making the 2024 ABEX Awards a memorable event.

2024 ABEX AWARD RECIPIENTS

  • Community Involvement Award, sponsored by Saskatchewan Blue Cross:
    NexGen Energy Ltd. (Vancouver/Saskatoon)
  • Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award, sponsored by Nutrien:
    KDM Constructors (Yorkton)
  • Growth and Expansion Award, sponsored by PFM Capital Inc.:
    JS Truckmart (Estevan)
  • Innovation Award, sponsored by Saskatchewan Polytechnic:
    Ground Truth Agriculture (Regina)
  • New Venture Award:
    The Prairie Grazer (Saskatoon)
  • Non-Profit Impact Award, sponsored by Saskatchewan Pension Plan:
    Creative Options Regina (Regina)
  • Service Award, sponsored by KPMG LLP:
    Komfort Insulation Ltd. (Saskatoon)
  • Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award, sponsored by Cameco Corporation:
    Brianna Dellezay, Saskatchewan Behaviour Consulting (Saskatoon)
  • ABEX Business of the Year, sponsored by Grant Thornton LLP:
    JS Truckmart (Estevan)

SPECIAL AWARD RECIPIENTS

  • ABEX Business Leader of the Year, sponsored by the University of Regina:
    Gary Redhead, President and CEO, Redhead Equipment (Regina)
  • ABEX Community Leader of the Year, sponsored by FCC:
    Greg Yuel, Owner, President, and CEO, PIC Investment Group (Saskatoon)
  • Saskatchewan Business Hall of Fame Inductee:
    AGT Food and Ingredients (Davidson)
  • Roger Phillips Chamber Builder Award:
    Patricia Warsaba (Regina)

“The ABEX Awards have always been about recognizing the incredible talent and dedication within Saskatchewan’s business community. It’s inspiring to see how our award recipients are making a positive impact and setting new standards for excellence in their fields.”  – Prabha Ramaswamy, CEO of the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce

 

Link to full article.

 

Laying the ‘Foundations’ for Truth & Reconciliation

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COR and Inclusion Regina were recently featured in the South Saskatchewan Community Foundation’s Annual Report. Moreover, COR’s Indigenous Culture Advisor, Jessica Pratt-Longman, was featured in an Episode of Planting Seeds, presented by Access Now. Be sure to watch!

Read our story: Laying the ‘Foundations’ for Truth and Reconciliation – Inclusion Regina’s Story.

 

 

Regina Leader-Post: Made-in-Saskatchewan sex-ed curriculum has global reach

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Made-in-Saskatchewan sex-ed curriculum has global reach

Tell It Like It Is is a comprehensive sex ed courses designed for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Published Jun 25, 2024
Heather Hynd wanted to learn more about relationships, dating and decision-making.

She had been in an abusive relationship that was “very, very hard to leave,” and wanted to build her confidence and feel empowered to speak up for what she did and didn’t want with a partner, she says.

But there weren’t a lot of comprehensive sexual education courses designed for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities — courses that would cover the whole range of subjects Hynd was interested in, from safety and healthy relationships to navigating dating, breakups and identity.

So when Hynd found out about the Tell It Like It Is program five years ago, she was thrilled.

“I would tell everyone that you should take this class,” she says. “We learn about relationships and consent. We also talk about safe pregnancy — how to be safe — and the unwanted pregnancy, if you don’t want to have it.

“I could learn a lot about relationships. How to say yes. How to say no. How to consent.”

Over a 10-week course, Tell It Like It Is covers communication skills, body parts and body image, online dating, birth control and safer sex practices, understanding different kinds of relationships, sex and pleasure, consent and boundaries.

 

The programme booklet for the the 'Tell It Like It Is' program.
A booklet for the the ‘Tell It Like It Is’ program. KAYLE NEIS / Regina Leader-Post PHOTO BY KAYLE NEIS /Regina Leader-Post

 

Natalya Mason, a sexual health consultant in Saskatoon, says research continues to show that sex-ed programs such as Tell It Like It Is are important safety tools.

“Providing a high-quality, comprehensive, evidence-based educational program to people with developmental and intellectual disabilities is the best way to help protect them from future abuse,” she says.

“That’s true for learners with disabilities, and that’s also true for learners without disabilities. And if they do find themselves in a situation where they’re uncertain or something bad has happened, it helps in being able to feel confident and capable to talk about these things.”

The Tell It Like It Is curriculum was designed and developed in Saskatchewan, and has become a shared project of Creative Options Regina, Saskatoon Sexual Heath and Inclusion Saskatchewan.

The curriculum is now being used all across Canada and far beyond.

“When you Google this topic, there are not a lot of resources out there — and ours is one of the first that pops up,” says Kristyn White, literacy facilitator for Creative Options Regina.

“At this point, I think we’ve connected with people in every province. We’ve also had several people in Australia download (the curriculum). People in Japan are downloading it. We’ve had people in India. We’ve had lots of people in Europe, and all throughout Canada and the States. It truly has a worldwide reach.”

White says this particular curriculum is helping fill a big gap in sexual health education: Disabled people, particularly intellectually or developmentally disabled people, often don’t get access to the information they want and need about sex, relationships and their own bodies.

“The general attitudes towards people with disabilities in relation to sexuality are pretty negative,” White says.

“Within society, there are so many assumptions — that disabled people are asexual, that they’re not interested in relationships. People have the idea that people with disabilities cannot consent, that they shouldn’t be allowed to consent, that they shouldn’t even be allowed to have relationships. So the opportunities for people to learn are few and far between.”

 

Kristyn White, Tell It Like It Is program facilitator, sits for a portrait at the Creative Options Regina offices on Wednesday, June 5, 2024 in Regina.
Kristyn White, Tell It Like It Is program facilitator, at the Creative Options Regina offices on Wednesday, June 5, 2024 in Regina. KAYLE NEIS / Regina Leader-Post PHOTO BY KAYLE NEIS /Regina Leader-Post

 

Mason says Tell It Like It Is is all about creating those opportunities — a space for open conversations, rather than assumptions, silence or censorship.

“There is an intentional focus on creating opportunities for people with disabilities to have fulfilling relationships — and, on their own terms, without any kind of judgment about what those relationships need to look like,” she says.

For Hynd herself, the Tell It Like It Is program at Creative Options Regina has become a comfortable, safe place to ask questions and practise her strategies for navigating important talks with friends and partners.

“Tell It Like It Is, I’m a pro at it now,” she said. “It’s been really helpful in my relationship that I’m in now, that is a lot better than my old one. I’m happier.

“And there’s one thing I’ve been working really hard on: I have a hard time saying ‘no’ to different things and different people. If I say ‘no,’ people might get mad at me or swear at me or never talk to me again. But now, I’m working on my boundaries.”

Read the story in the Saskatoon StarPhoenix and Regina Leader-Post, published on June 25, 2024.

Revealed! Best Places to Work in Canada 2024 – HRD Canada’s Top Picks

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Best Places to Work in Canada 2024 list showcases organizations excelling in employee satisfaction

Revealed! Best Places to Work in Canada 2024 – HRD Canada’s Top Picks
BY HRD staff 11 Jun. 2024

Human Resources Director’s Best Places to Work in Canada 2024 list showcases organizations excelling in employee satisfaction by focusing on healthy work-life balance, open work environments, updated tech tools, team building, and strong coworker relationships. This year, the highlighted companies stood out for prioritizing their employees’ well-being, creating positive and inclusive cultures that enhance the overall employee experience.

Fidelity Investments Canada, with an impressive 87% employee satisfaction rating, has consistently ranked among HRD’s Best Places to Work. The company prioritizes listening to employees, resulting in a thriving culture of celebration and engagement. Fidelity’s initiatives include a subsidized full-service café, extended health and dental benefits, and strong advocacy for commuting solutions.

Diana Godfrey, Senior Vice President of HR and Corporate Affairs, emphasizes, “We try to put ourselves in our employees’ shoes, and we also lobbied our insurance company to extend health and dental benefits past the age of seventy.”

Excellence in employee engagement

Achieving an 82% employee satisfaction rating, The Peak Group of Companies, headquartered in British Columbia, excels in the home renovation and outdoor living products sector. The company’s culture is built on employee well-being, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Employees benefit from an education reimbursement program, cross-functional collaboration opportunities, and a strong emphasis on employee input. The organization supports charitable activities and fosters a family-friendly environment with hybrid work options.

“We care about our team members’ well-being and believe in prioritizing our people,” says Senior Human Resources Generalist Gloria Lam. “All of our staff have been carefully screened and selected to join us, and I think we all share those similar traits.”

With an overall employee satisfaction rating of 84%, the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville attributes its thriving culture to its dedicated workforce of over 500 staff. Employees praised the relaxed dress code, strong coworker relationships, and excellent pay and benefits. The town promotes communication and transparency through quarterly town halls and wellness initiatives supporting work-life balance. The staff events committee enhances the work environment, organizing events like the employee appreciation day featuring games, balloons, and a poutine food truck.

Claudette Banks, HR Director, notes, “We run numerous events yearly, and we do it because we want staff to feel like coming to work is fun.”

Innovative work cultures
UNFI Canada, a national natural and organic food distributor based in Concord, ON, received a 77% employee satisfaction rating. The company is dedicated to diversity and inclusion, fostering strong coworker relationships, and maintaining high-quality office spaces. UNFI excels in remote and hybrid work arrangements, philanthropic activities, and comprehensive training programs. Employees appreciate open communication from senior leadership and the organization’s innovative approach to new technology and work practices.

Lyn Morgan, Senior Director of Human Resources, states, “When you’re providing sustenance to people, it’s rewarding, and a lot of us get a sense of satisfaction from the type of organization we are.”

Creative Options Regina (COR) is celebrated for its exceptional workplace culture, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and employee engagement. COR’s innovative approaches and dedication to their mission foster a unique and supportive work environment.

The Alberta School Employee Benefit Plan (ASEBP) is recognized for its employee-focused initiatives and comprehensive benefits. ASEBP’s commitment to wellness and professional development contributes to its high employee satisfaction and engagement.

ECO Canada excels in fostering a dynamic and supportive work environment, with a strong focus on sustainability and employee growth. Their commitment to professional development and environmental stewardship sets them apart as a top employer.

These organizations represent the best of the best, setting benchmarks for others to follow in creating environments where employees thrive and feel valued. Their dedication to employee satisfaction is not only commendable but also a blueprint for building outstanding workplace cultures in Canada.

Read the full article on the HRD website.

New Affordable Housing Units Open In Regina To Support People With Diverse Needs

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Individuals with diverse needs have improved access to affordable and accessible housing in Regina thanks to a joint investment from the governments of Canada and Saskatchewan, the City of Regina, and the National Affordable Housing Corporation (NAHC).

Today, Minister of Social Services and Minister Responsible for Saskatchewan Housing Corporation Gene Makowsky, joined representatives from the City of Regina and the NAHC in celebrating the opening of four new affordable housing units in the Rosewood Park neighbourhood of Regina.

The four, three-bedroom stacked townhome units at Plainsview Estates will provide affordable housing and supports for eight individuals experiencing mental health and physical disabilities.

The tenants of the new units will receive in-home support services and connection to community programs from Creative Options Regina. By combining housing with support services, vulnerable individuals can achieve stability and experience life in the community.

Funding provided for the project includes:

$160,000 from SHC through the Rental Development Program funded through the National Housing Strategy – Saskatchewan Priorities Initiative;
$110,500 from NAHC; and
$100,000 from the City of Regina.

Quotes:

“The federal government is working with provinces to ensure we address the housing needs across Canada,” Minister of Northern Affairs and Minister responsible for PrairiesCan Dan Vandal on behalf of The Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Minister Sean Fraser said. “Providing Saskatchewanians with access to safe, affordable homes and the support and services they need is a priority, and this is only possible through the hard work and collaboration of all our partners. I am thrilled to welcome these families into their new homes today, and I wish them all the best as they embark on this new chapter in their lives.”

 

“Our government is very proud to be a part of this important project that makes a difference in the lives of people with unique housing needs,” Makowsky said. “These new housing units give residents more than just a safe and affordable place to live; they also offer a support system, a connection to the community and an opportunity for residents to reach their full potential.”

 

“The City of Regina is grateful for the federal and provincial governments’ investment in our city, and we are pleased to partner with them to not only expand housing options for individuals experiencing disability, but also to create a space where they can connect and thrive,” City of regina Mayor Sandra Masters said. “By offering safe and accessible homes along with essential support services through Creative Options Regina, we are fostering a stronger, more inclusive community in Regina.”

 

“Expanding our affordable rentals to persons served by our partners at Creative Options Regina (COR) was an easy decision for the NAHC,” National Affordable Housing Corporation Chief Executive Officer Tyler Mathies said. “COR is well-known for supporting successful independence through in-home living for persons with intellectual disabilities in the community and thanks to this collaboration, eight persons supported by COR now have access to some of the highest quality affordable housing in the province. There is a growing and desperate need for safe, independent supportive living housing in Regina. Thanks to contributions from CMHC, SHC, and the City of Regina, we are demonstrating what is possible when we work together to create new and inclusive solutions to address affordable housing gaps in our community.”

 

“Working together with the National Affordable Housing Corporation has allowed the people we support to secure safe, accessible and most importantly, affordable housing, in a developing neighbourhood where they can experience community and a true sense of belonging,” Creative Options Regina CEO Michael Lavis said. “We are thrilled to partner and collaborate with an organization that shares similar values and are striving to address housing insecurity for people experiencing disability.”

Quick facts:

  • Canada’s National Housing Strategy (NHS) is a 10-year, $82 plus billion plan that will give more Canadians a place to call home.
    • NHS is built on strong partnerships between the federal, provincial, and territorial governments, and continuous engagement with municipalities, Indigenous governments and organizations, and the social and private housing sectors. It was created after consultations with Canadians from all walks of life, including those who have experienced housing need.
    • All NHS investments delivered by the federal, provincial and territorial governments will respect the key principles of NHS that support partnerships, people and communities.
  • In 2019, the Government of Canada and the Government of Saskatchewan entered into an agreement through the National Housing Strategy. The Canada-Saskatchewan Bilateral Agreement will invest $585 million over 10 years, which is cost matched between the federal and provincial governments.
  • All funding provided under the NHS is cost-shared 50/50 by the federal and provincial governments across a broad spectrum of programs. While funding under the Rental Development Program (RDP) may reflect a 100 per cent federal contribution, other programs delivered under the NHS- SP may be 100 per cent provincially funded.
  • The RDP prioritizes funding to develop affordable rental housing for households who are “hard-to-house” in Saskatchewan with incomes under the Saskatchewan Household Income Maximums (SHIM)-Low. The RDP may fund up to 70 per cent of a project’s capital cost.
  • NAHC is a non-profit organization that works with private home builders, government units and other non-profit organizations to facilitate the construction of affordable housing units in Saskatchewan. Since 2020, SHC have worked with NAHC to develop 45 affordable housing units (including this project) in Saskatoon and Regina, through the RDP.
  • The tenants will be receiving support services from COR, an organization that develops personalized support services for people experiencing a wide range of disabilities. They offer in-home personalized supports through their Supportive Living Program and wayfinding supports through their Daytime Program.

Read the full Press Release on the Government of Saskatchewan’s Website.