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 2021.
The plan: to convert the hotel into 48 safe affordable suites for women, children 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 huge need for women’s housing especially in the last few years. Also in this neighbourhood, there are a lot of seniors who need affordable housing” Delaney said.
