The federal government is investing $10 million to renovate the Winnipeg’s Women’s Health Clinic just days after the building’s aging infrastructure created a host of problems.
The funding, which was announced on Thursday, will go towards upgrades to the clinic’s mechanical, electrical, and elevator systems. It will also contribute to retrofits to reduce carbon emissions and ensure the clinic can continue delivering services for years to come.
“This investment goes far beyond physical upgrades. It represents our unwavering belief that every woman deserves accessible and comprehensive health care,” said Marci Ien, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth, at a news conference.
“I know that this clinic has been a lifeline for those in need. So with these improvements, we’re ensuring that it remains a safe place, a modern place, and accessible space.”
This news comes shortly after the clinic was temporarily closed due to major service disruptions, including a busted boiler and burst pipes.
“When I actually heard the words about the commitment, I almost broke out in tears…This has been an ongoing challenge for us,” said Kemlin Nembhard, executive director of the clinic.
“We’ve known that we’ve needed to redevelop this space to be able to deliver the programs that we do to so many people every single day that without us I don’t know where they would go,”
Women’s Health Clinic, located on Graham Avenue, is an inclusive community health clinic with a focus on supporting those who identify as women, girls, 2SLGBTQIA, newcomers, those living in poverty, and racialized and Indigenous communities. The services it provides include counselling, reproductive health care and gender-affirming care.
