They have our backs; Progressive Conservatives have theirs: Stefanson

WINNIPEG — PC Leader Heather Stefanson today committed to prioritizing the needs of veterans experiencing homelessness, and affirmed that a re-elected PC government would take significant steps to combat veteran homelessness and related issues in Manitoba.

“Those who have served our country and safeguarded our freedoms should never face homelessness. Manitoba needs a dedicated office to assist veterans in accessing vital resources,” Stefanson stated firmly.

In a groundbreaking move, the PC Party unveiled a pledge to grant $250,000 to support the Homes for Heroes Foundation’s sustainability plan in the Winnipeg Kinsmen Veterans Village. This funding will aid in retrofitting and efficiency upgrades, ensuring veterans in the village benefit from energy-efficient homes while contributing to a more sustainable future for all Manitobans. Lower maintenance costs for veteran residents will be an added advantage.

This commitment builds upon the PC Team’s dedication to sustainable housing upgrades, exemplified by initiatives launched under Efficiency Manitoba, including lowering the income threshold for energy efficiency upgrades.

Additionally, the PC Party plans to transform the Military Envoy office into a Military Affairs Secretariat, allocating an annual budget of $1 million for the Secretariat to serve as a direct point-of-access for veterans to receive assistance accessing services they require through both the federal and provincial governments.

David Howard, Founder and CEO of the Homes For Heroes Foundation, expressed gratitude for the PC Party’s unwavering support, emphasizing their commitment to aiding unhoused veterans in their transition to civilian life. He praised their sustainable development approach and dedication to Canadian veterans.

“I want to thank Heather Stefanson, Kevin Klein, and their entire team for their continued support of the Homes For Heroes Winnipeg Kinsmen Veterans Village. They have been a great champion for our charity, Canadian Veterans, and sustainable development,” said Howard. “Our program focuses on helping our unhoused Veterans transition back to civilian life, by providing a community of tiny homes, with wrap-around social support programing. We can achieve so much when we work together, and we are humbled to move forward as part of the Manitoba community in helping those that once stood on guard for Canada.”

Kevin Klein, PC candidate for Kirkfield Park, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the urgency of supporting veterans who often grapple with homelessness and addiction due to conditions like PTSD, after working over the last four years to see Homes for Heroes in Winnipeg. He expressed pride in Heather Stefanson’s leadership and the PC Team’s commitment to leaving no veteran behind.

“I’m proud to be a part of a PC Team who stands up for veterans,” said Klein. “We must do our part to make sure they have access to resources when they need them.”

With the upcoming election scheduled for October 3rd, these initiatives underscore the PC Party’s dedication to addressing the pressing issue of homelessness among veterans in Manitoba.

-30-

For media inquiries, please contact [email protected]