On December 13th, the Governments of Canada and Alberta announced funding for the expansion of Big Knife Villa in Forestburg. This expansion will include the addition of 20 units to the existing lodge.

The funding is part of the Investment in Affordable Housing 2011-2014 Agreement between the Governments of Canada and Alberta.

Leon Benoit, Member of Parliament for Vegreville-Wainwright, made the announcement at the lodge to a full room of residents, families, and staff. He was joined by Don Squire, Executive Director of Capital Initiatives with Municipal Affairs Housing Development, who attended on behalf of Doug Griffiths, MLA for Battle River-Wainwright (and former Minister of Municipal Affairs).

Mayor of Forestburg and Flagstaff Regional Housing Group Board member, Peter Miller, spoke on behalf of Board Chair Donna Buelow. He thanked the governments and communities for their support of the intiative.

In addition to the expansion of Big Knife Villa, the Flagstaff Regional Housing Group will also explore options for Flagstaff Lodge in Sedgewick as part of this funding. The announcement is the result of extensive discussions within the communities and the Flagstaff region.

The Bethany Group is excited about this announcement and will keep staff, residents, and families apprised of developments as the project moves forward.

For more information, please see the CMHC website.