It started with a vision . . .
Provide more residences for homeless and disadvantaged in Forest Lawn, SE Calgary
History
The Town and Country Hotel also known as the T&C, in Calgary's Forest Lawn district, has been around since 1972, offering live music and accommodations. “A notorious place in Calgary. A lot of people have spent time here and had a lot of fun,” said the hotel’s former owner, Mike Shymka. The old building had stayed strong and faced many challenges, it survived a big fire and it also saw many police incidents. “This is a high-needs community. There’s a lot of stuff going on here to say the least,” said Shymka.
A deal was struck between the hotel owners and the Victory Foundation in 2020.
The plan, to convert the hotel into 48 units with safe affordable homes for women and seniors.
The project has been divided into 4 key phases for funding and project planning.
Don Delaney, executive director of the Victory Foundation, says the location just off 17 Avenue is perfect because it’s close to transit and a grocery store. “Especially in a working class neighbourhood, it really brings hope.”
“There is a big need for women’s housing especially over the years and we have seen it grow. Also in this neighbourhood, there are a lot of seniors who need affordable housing,” Delaney said.
