$2.4 million grant to transform Lighthouse Mission into critical detox hub in Winnipeg

In response to the critical shortage of crisis detox beds in Winnipeg, Member of Parliament Ben Carr recently announced a federal investment exceeding $2.3 million for the retrofitting of two heritage buildings at Lighthouse Mission. This strategic investment aims to enhance services for those in need within the city's downtown core.

The initiative will see the renovation and rehabilitation of two Main Street buildings, creating a safe detox space capable of simultaneously accommodating up to 10 individuals. This development is poised to significantly contribute to addressing the pressing need for substance use and addiction treatment resources in the area.

Peter McMullen, Director of Lighthouse Mission, emphasized the necessity of their expanded services, saying, "serving our guests is much more than just providing a warm meal. It is so important when we connect with our friends each and every day to meet them where they are at.

McMullen made the remarks at an announcement at the Mission on Nov. 25, with representatives from Lighthouse, Adult & Teen Challenge, and all three levels of government.

A wide shot of two older 3-storey buildings beside each other. the building on the left has a sign which reads "Lighthouse Mission." A long line of people waiting to enter the mission stretches down the sidewalk and out of range of the photo.

Lighthouse Mission began as a church in 1911. However, in the 1930s as the Great Depression raged on, the congregation pivoted to becoming a soup kitchen. Today it continues to serve Winnipeg's most vulnerable people.

"The struggles (guests) face each day are so real," McMullen says. "With addiction being so rampant and devastating in our community and the tremendous strain on resources to gain access to life changing programs; adding a service such as our detox crisis beds is not just an option - it is necessary. Each and every day we can help our guests with the comfort of a smile, a warm meal, a kind word - and now a chance for freedom and a new life. We are so grateful for the generous support to help us realize this dream.”

Hon. Ya’ara Saks, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, emphasized the multifaceted approach needed for addiction treatment, stating, "There is no 'one-size-fits-all' approach to addiction treatment, and recovery looks different for everyone. Organizations like the Lighthouse Mission provide a beacon of hope for their community."

Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham acknowledged the challenges the city faces concerning homelessness, addiction, and street safety, expressing gratitude to Lighthouse Mission and government partners for addressing these shared challenges. He stated, "The much-needed renovation of these Main Street buildings will create a safe and welcoming space to support individuals on their journey towards recovery."

The retrofitting project will include essential updates to building systems, such as HVAC, energy systems, and fire safety. Unused spaces will be brought up to the building code, enabling Lighthouse Mission to redirect funds from utility bills to other crucial programs. Anticipated improvements are expected to reduce the facility’s energy consumption by an estimated 70.1 per cent annually.

The Government of Canada is investing $2,395,590 in the project through the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program (GICB). The City of Winnipeg and Lighthouse Mission are also contributing $23,000 and $205,898, respectively. The Government of Manitoba has previously announced an investment of $300,000 towards this project.

Lighthouse Mission is closely connected with Adult & Teen Challenge. Each day, students at ATC prepare hundreds of meals for the Mission to serve to its guests. Mcmullen himself is an ATC grad who has shared very openly about how Jesus has changed his life.