Safe and secure homes are on the way for people experiencing homelessness as construction begins on a new supportive housing project in the community.
“Supportive housing has a powerful impact on the people who call it home and supports the overall health of the community,” said the Hon. Selina Robinson, BC's Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. “These homes are more than a roof and a bed. We’re proud to work with community partners to provide a new start for people experiencing homelessness.”
The 32 new supportive homes in the three-storey building will be self-contained, with private bathrooms and kitchens.
The Quesnel Shelter & Support Society will provide 24-hour service to help residents transition to independence and recovery through life and social skills training, and access to community services and support groups. Residents will also have a meal program with a community kitchen and activities that include cultural programming.
“Everyone needs a home,” said Mel McDonald, executive director of the Quesnel Shelter & Support Society. “We’re proud to help create safe, supportive homes for our community’s most vulnerable. It’s amazing to see how lives can change for the better with a safe place to stay, regular meals and wellness support.”
Four of the homes will be support recovery units, funded and managed by Northern Health. Support services will be provided to residents with addiction issues who have either completed a primary withdrawal management program, are waiting for treatment or are ready to integrate back to the community.
“There is a critical need for supportive housing in Quesnel,” said Quesnel Mayor Bob Simpson “This project will provide homes and supportive services to the people in our community who need it.”
Construction is expected to be complete by July 2020.
Quick Facts:
- The Province provided approximately $9 million in capital and construction funding to develop this project. The Province will also provide annual operating funding.
- The B.C. government is also addressing the need for more affordable housing for Indigenous peoples in Quesnel with 27 homes underway through the Building BC: Indigenous Housing Fund.
- To address the issue of housing affordability for British Columbians, the Province is curbing speculation in B.C.’s housing market and helping to build 114,000 affordable homes, including market rental, non-profit, supported social housing and owner-purchase housing through partnerships.
Learn More:
To learn more about this project at 355 Elliott St., visit: https://www.bchousing.org/partner-services/public-engagement/elliott-street
To find out what the Province is doing to tackle the housing crisis and deliver affordable homes for British Columbians, visit: https://workingforyou.gov.bc.ca/
A map showing the location of all announced provincially funded housing projects in B.C. is available online: https://www.bchousing.org/homes-for-BC
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