Rotary Partners with Westminster Housing

The Westminster Housing Society (WHS), a key provider of affordable housing in Winnipeg’s West Broadway area, is collaborating with Winnipeg Rotary Clubs to enhance its properties. WHS owns and manages approximately 100 housing units. These properties, acquired two decades ago, are undergoing a much-needed major maintenance and upgrade program.

 

With limited funds, WHS is prioritizing interior renovations and energy efficiency improvements, leaving little for exterior landscaping. Winnipeg Rotary Clubs have stepped in, initiating a "greening up" effort for several properties. HFTC Landscape Architects are providing expert advice on plant materials, while Five Stones Property Management, the WHS property managers, are also participating. Rotary members are committing to hands-on work, including follow-up watering to ensure the success of new plantings.

 

The initial focus of this partnership is on two properties on Spence Street. At the first, a double lot, the front room serves as a tenant’s hub for meetings and community gatherings. The goal was to transform the outdoor space into an extension of this hub for summer use and an informal tenant drop-in area.

 

 

On Saturday, June 14, Rotarians, WHS Board members, and tenants conducted a significant cleanup, weeding, pruning, and planting session at both locations. Areas overrun by weeds were cleared and replanted with trees and perennials. Rotarian volunteers are also committed to regular watering of the new plants. To further enhance the space at the first property, four folding chairs, two umbrella stands (with donated umbrellas), and two small folding patio tables were purchased. A children’s swing set and two additional patio chairs were also donated. Six Winnipeg Rotary Clubs are jointly funding these material costs.

 

 

The positive reaction from tenants, including the tenant who received five blueberry bushes, underscored the impact of the initiative. This project has also received extensive coverage in local community newspapers, “The Leaf” and “Streets”.

Future plans include spreading gravel in the dirt parking area, installing paving slabs along the muddy walkway, and repainting the small side deck and existing picnic furniture. These easy-to-complete tasks await volunteer participation. Once these are finished, discussions will begin on the next priorities for the partnership.