New Transitional Housing Complex Opens in Regina to Support Single Mothers
A new supportive housing development has officially opened its doors in Regina's Heritage neighbourhood, offering a vital lifeline to single mothers and their children facing housing instability. Lilium Village, developed by the non-profit ministry Maybell Developments, represents a significant step forward in addressing the growing need for transitional housing solutions in the Saskatchewan capital.
Creating a Home-Like Environment
The 12-unit complex features thoughtfully designed three-bedroom duplexes with vibrant colour schemes, plush carpets, and large windows that create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. "We wanted it to really feel like a home," emphasized Victoria Aspinall, board president of Maybell Developments, during a recent tour of the facility. "That's important, to feel at home when you're working toward stability and independence."
Each unit has been carefully finished with complementary details and will be surrounded by green space come spring, creating a community environment rather than just a housing facility. The project, which broke ground in 2022, has already generated significant interest with a waitlist of applicants since its announcement, and all units are expected to be occupied by the end of the month.
Addressing Hidden Homelessness
The complex specifically targets women who are pregnant, have children, or are working to regain custody of their children, with particular consideration for those leaving situations of domestic violence or abuse. This focus responds directly to Regina's housing crisis, where women and children face disproportionate risks of "hidden homelessness"—a reality that often forces families into couch-surfing, hotel stays, or even living in vehicles due to limited shelter capacity.
Recent data underscores the urgency of this initiative. Regina's most recent point-in-time homelessness count revealed that 22 percent of the 767 individuals identified were experiencing hidden homelessness. While the count doesn't specify family breakdowns, historical data consistently shows that the majority of homeless families in Regina are led by single mothers.
Breaking Generational Cycles
Lilium Village operates on a philosophy of comprehensive support that extends beyond mere housing. "We step in to be that medium level of support to transition them, to build the skills for becoming independent," explained Aspinall. The program aims to help families stabilize and break cycles of poverty through a combination of secure housing, daycare services, and programming designed to enhance life and job skills.
"Putting single mothers and children first is focusing on breaking the generational cycle," Aspinall noted. "It allows us to not just help one person, one individual, but to work with an entire family toward lasting stability and self-sufficiency."
The development represents a community-based approach to addressing housing insecurity, recognizing that supporting single mothers creates ripple effects that benefit entire families and communities. By providing both physical shelter and supportive programming, Lilium Village aims to create pathways toward permanent housing solutions and improved quality of life for Regina's most vulnerable families.
