(LNN)

By LNN Staff

Hope

YWCA Lethbridge announces new housing program

Jun 11, 2025 | 10:58 AM

YWCA Lethbridge & District has announced the opening of their newest housing program.

It’s called Hope and is described as a long-term transitional housing program where women and families coming from emergency shelters can live independently while taking the necessary, and often lengthy, steps towards a life free from violence.

Officials say this housing program is the first of its kind in Lethbridge, nearly doubling the number of available beds focused exclusively on individuals and families who have been impacted by domestic violence.

“The Hope Program offers something new for our community — a dedicated space for women and families taking the next step after experiencing domestic violence,” explains YWCA CEO Jill Young. “For many, leaving emergency shelter is just one step in a journey toward safety, healing, and independence. Hope helps to bridge that gap with the stability and support people need to rebuild.”

“I’m grateful for the strong collaboration with city administration and council that helped bring this vision to life, and I’m optimistic about what we can continue to build together to support lasting impact,” continues Young.

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Through funding provided by the Government of Canada’s Reaching Home program, officials note, the City of Lethbridge has allocated close to $450,000 in capital and operational funding to the YWCA’s Hope Transitional Housing Program for Women and Children.

“This project represents over two years of focused collaboration between the CSD department and the YWCA,” says CSD General Manager Andrew Malcolm. “By aligning local and federal investments, we’ve been able to help fill a critical gap identified in the Municipal Housing Strategy. The result is a new transitional housing option that provides safety, stability, and opportunity for vulnerable women and children in Lethbridge.”

The YWCA says this funding, administered by the city’s Community Social Development (CSD) department and guided by the Community Wellbeing Advisory Board, builds on just over $230,000 in capital funding previously approved by city council.

Mayor Hyggen says, “On behalf of Lethbridge city council, I want to commend the YWCA and the city for working together to leverage federal dollars to help create housing, jobs, and safe spaces for those women and families in Lethbridge who are faced with leaving abusive situations.” “

“The YWCA’s newest housing program is proof that together, we can work to identify and address the communities’ housing needs,” says Corey Hogan, Member of Parliament for Calgary Confederation, on behalf of the Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development. “With targeted investments and local expertise, Hope will provide women and families in Lethbridge with a safe, secure space to support their journey forward.”

Officials say the Hope Program will be gradually accepting intake referrals throughout the next several weeks. Jill Young says they expect to be at or near capacity within 6 weeks, and that YWCA Lethbridge will continue to develop educational and empowering programming for Hope participants that will prepare them to find higher education options, employment opportunities, housing & childcare providers, and essential services supports.

YWCA Lethbridge is hosting an Open House on Wednesday June 18, 2025, between 3:00- 7:00 p.m. and invites all members of the community to visit the organization at 604 8 St. S. to learn more about the Hope program, other programs & services offered by YWCA, and what their vision is for the future.

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