Exclusive 2SLGBTQ+ seniors complex being built in Winnipeg

A field of weeds will soon be replaced with affordable housing for 2SLGBTQ+ seniors, offering them a safe and supportive space to live as they continue to age here in the province.

The new four-story 21-unit apartment complex has been in the planning stages for decades, getting ready for shovels to hit the ground the in fall of 2022 says Noreen Mian, executive director of the Rainbow Resource Centre in Winnipeg.

“Rainbow Resource Centre is really excited to be building Canada’s first affirming housing exclusively for 2SLGBTQ+ seniors,” Noreen Mian, executive director of Rainbow Resource Centre.

Mian says demand for housing aging members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community became clear after a survey reported fears about entering later in-life housing options currently available.

“What we’re seeing is the first generation of out and proud seniors entering long-term care and potentially going back into the closet because they fear discrimination, they fear harassment, they fear not getting adequate care, or they are concerned that their family members or spouses may not be able to visit them,” she explained.

The complex is being built downtown next to a 118-year-old heritage property.

Jim Kane is turning 68 this year, he marched in Winnipeg’s first pride event and says no one should have to go back into the closet as a senior citizen.

“This generation that is growing old, my generation, fought to come out of the closet, to be ourselves, to love who we chose to love and to fight for social justice, and as we grow older it’s important to be in an environment where we can be ourselves,” explained Kane.

Kane says he would like to see more specialized spaces for 2SLGBTQ+ seniors across Canada.

Mel Byer turns 72 this year and says living accommodations for aging 2SLGBTQ+ people is greatly needed, Mel has faced discrimination as a gay man throughout his lifetime and applauds the rainbow resource centre for moving the apartment complex forward.

“I have come out to people who have told me you probably shouldn’t have done that,” said Byer. “I think that we have sort of earned the right to be comfortable and to be who we are.”

Mian says there is already a waiting list for people who want to move in, when construction is completed. Other organizations in Canada are also reaching out to learn about the concept and see if they could create something similar.

“Yes, they are, we have had calls from Edmonton so far and I’m sure as word gets out we’ll hear more.”

Mian is optimistic the property will be move-in ready within the next two years.