McGifford KA; International Conference on AIDS.
Int Conf AIDS. 1996 Jul 7-12; 11: 416 (abstract no. Th.D.5060).
Artemis Housing Co-op, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. Fax: (204) 774-8895. E-mail: sht894@freenet.mb.ca.
Issue: Persons living with AIDS/HIV often encounter difficulties accessing appropriate housing due to health concerns and socio-economic status. Project: Based upon an extensive needs assessment, a project was initiated to design, construct and operate appropriate housing for persons with AIDS/HIV. Results: Artemis Housing Co-op opened its doors in September 1993. It is located in the newly developed "Crossways" Centre at the corner of Furby and Broadway, which also houses Young United Church, Hope Mennonite Church, Day Nursery Centre, West Broadway Community Outreach, and West Broadway Youth Outreach. (The previous home, prior to its destruction by fire, of Young United Church.) It is located in the West Broadway district of downtown Winnipeg, with easy access to public transit, medical services, retail services, and social gathering establishments. Artemis is an eleven (11) unit housing co-operative run by and for its members, most of whom have AIDS or are HIV+. Artemis is designed for "independent living", and includes all the amenities of modern apartment living. Units have been designed under strict specifications, so that they will be accessible to those who may experience physical disabilities. Efforts were also made to ensure that the materials used in the construction of Artemis would meet high standards, as fumes from paint, carpet, etc., can be irritating and/or toxic to those with compromised immune systems. Artemis Housing Co-op and its partners, have a number of programs for subsidizing the cost of housing charges that can be made available to its members. All of the units in Artemis are currently covered by some type of subsidy program. This has helped to ensure that the cost of the units remain affordable and accessible to those who would otherwise find the costs prohibitive. Membership in Artemis Housing Co-op is open to all persons who have AIDS or are HIV+, their partners, family and friends. Members are encouraged to become active participants in the life and work of the Co-op, based upon their own abilities and skills. Partners in the development and support of Artemis Housing Co-op Ltd. include, but are not limited to, the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, Manitoba Regional Housing Authority, AIDS Shelter Coalition of Manitoba, AIDS Shelter Foundation of Manitoba, the United Church of Canada, S.A.M. (Mgmt.) Inc., all of its members, both living and deceased, and many, many volunteers. Lessons Learned: Appropriate housing is possible with the full cooperation of both public and private sectors. Anecdotal evidence would suggest an improvement in quality of life due to the fostering of a sense of community.
Publication Types:
Keywords:
- Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
- Canada
- Community-Institutional Relations
- HIV Infections
- HIV Seropositivity
- Housing
- Manitoba
- Residence Characteristics
Other ID:
UI: 102221229
From Meeting Abstracts