Housing Project:
New Beginnings
LOCATION
Gander, Newfoundland
PROJECT TYPE
Partner Owned Property (HHH)
UNITS
14 units of affordable housing
20 shelter and transitional housing bed
NUMBER OF PEOPLE TO BE HOUSED
34 people
PROJECT PARTNERS
Housing and Homelessness Hub
STATUS
Predevelopment
Expected shovel ready Q1 2026
The New Beginnings Proposal aims to provide a holistic approach to housing by addressing the entire housing continuum. At the multi-purpose site located at 59 Elizabeth Drive in Gander, Newfoundland, individuals and families will find housing options along the continuum, including a range of options tailored to diverse needs, from emergency to transitional, affordable and permanent housing. Coupled with essential wraparound support services such as education, career planning, life skills development, and mental health support, to empower lasting independence and improve overall community resilience.
In response to the community's growing needs, the Town Council of Gander purchased the property at 59 Elizabeth Drive. To explore effective, community-based solutions, Council issued an expression of interest in 2022, inviting proposals focused on enhancing community well-being through student and affordable housing, health education, recreation, and social services programming.
Following a comprehensive evaluation process, the Housing and Homelessness Hub's New Beginnings Proposal was selected, aligning with the Town’s “Build up Gander” initiative. The agreement outlines two pathways for transferring the property: an outright purchase for $500,000 or a lease-to-purchase agreement. Additionally, the Hub has exclusive rights to secure funding and carry out necessary pre-construction work.
$117,000 in provincial funding has been allocated for the New Beginnings project for operational expenses and pre-development costs, in addition to $300,000 from the Federal Government’s Reaching Home Program.
During the planning period of the project, Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services will occupy the property on a short-term lease while their permanent facility is being constructed. This initiative is a proactive, community-led approach to addressing housing insecurity, fostering stability, and improving overall quality of life in Gander.
Mayor Percy Farwell, Town of Gander
“This is an exciting milestone for the Town of Gander. The New Beginnings Proposal aligns perfectly with our Build Up Gander initiative and our commitment to community well-being. By working together with the Housing and Homelessness Hub, and other dedicated partners, we are actively addressing one of the most pressing issues our residents face. This community-led initiative will bring positive and lasting change to many lives, and I extend my sincere gratitude to all those involved for their commitment and support.”
Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Housing and Minister of Mental Health and Addictions
“This latest funding to the Gander Housing and Homelessness Hub is a sign of our ongoing commitment to their efforts to address homelessness in the central region. My thanks to the Board, to Mayor Farwell and the town council, and to my colleague Minister Haggie for their continued collaboration in supporting the most vulnerable in the region.”
Honourable Dr. John Haggie, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs and MHA for Gander
“I am pleased to be a part of this announcement and would like to thank the Housing and Homelessness Hub and the Town of Gander for their vision and perseverance. Along with wrap around services from many community partners, these first steps along the housing continuum are a move in the right direction for individuals, families and our community.”
Lori Moulton, Executive Director, Central Residential Services Board
"One of the most basic human needs is the need for safe, secure housing. Central Residential Service Board is pleased to partner with a multitude of community organizations and all levels of government to increase the availability of housing options for individuals and families. We look for continued and expanded partnerships as we address housing challenges in our community and region."
Kimberly Beers, Chair, Housing and Homelessness Hub
Today’s announcement is to bring a dream into a reality by creating New Beginnings. This project is so much more than a roof over your head. In fact, our aim for this project is to address the need - whether a person needs emergency or short term or long-term housing. All these housing options can be found under one roof with the added support from wrap-around services on site. With the collaboration within the partnerships that are present, we are confident that New Beginnings will accomplish these goals.”
14
new affordable homes will be created in Gander
34
people who are now experiencing homelessness or are at risk of homelessness will have a safe place to sleep at night and support services to move toward long term stable housing and other goals