The Government of British Columbia is partnering with the City of Victoria, Atira Women’s Resource Society, and the Aboriginal Coalition to End Homelessness to build new modular housing for Indigenous women, with 24/7 support services.
A total of 21 temporary homes will be built to be operational for approximately five years. They’ll be located on the 800 block of Hillside Avenue, as part of the Evergreen Terrace complex.
Pending municipal approvals, construction is anticipated to begin in fall 2018 and will be complete by March 2019.
Residents will also benefit from:
- 24/7 on-site staff support, including daily meal services, employment training, and culturally specific and life-skills programming
- Health and wellness services, including mental health and addictions treatment
- A shared amenity space and access to laundry facilities
- Custodial and maintenance services.
Crucial Development for Critical Homelessness Situation
Neighbouring residents and businesses will have an opportunity to learn more about the project at an open house (details will be announced in the coming weeks).
In the meantime, Provincial Ministers and local MLAs have been very supportive of the development.
“Having access to a safe, stable place to call home is crucial for anyone who is experiencing, or is at risk of, homelessness,”
“Indigenous people are over-represented amongst the homeless population,” said Selina Robinson, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. “And homeless women, especially those who are Indigenous, can face tremendous risks. That’s why I’m really pleased to see this project moving ahead.”
“The need for housing in Victoria has reached a critical level,” said Rob Fleming, MLA for Victoria-Swan Lake. “These new modular homes will provide Indigenous women in need with an affordable and safe place to call home, while accessing the support services that they need to reach their potential.”
