Thursday, March 28, 2024

B.C. buys $3.2M Victoria properties to create supportive housing units for homeless

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The B.C. provincial government, through BC Housing, has announced the purchase of two properties in Victoria in order to turn them into supportive housing units for those experiencing homelessness in the city.

According to a statement released Thursday, the province has purchased two lots at 1053 and 1075 Meares St for a price of $3.2 million through the Supportive Housing Fund.

BC Housing proposes that the lots be combined to build up to 50 units of permanent supportive housing units with wraparound supports in place for people experiencing homelessness in the city.

“Everyone deserves a good, safe place to call home, and the need for new supportive housing in Victoria is clear,” said Carole James, MLA for Victoria-Beacon Hill, in a statement.

“This housing with wraparound supports will make a real difference for people who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness, giving them a place of their own where they can stabilize and rebuild their lives.”

The BC Housing proposal is expected to be in place in early 2021, at which time new community advisory committee will be set up to oversee the supportive housing’s integration within the community. The committee will address any concerns raised by people in the neighbourhood.

Like other supportive housing buildings, the proposed one would have around-the-clock staffing to help young people, people with disabilities, seniors and others in critical need of housing.

Residents will be provided with the supports they need, including education and employment opportunities, health and wellness services, and mental health and addiction treatment programs.

For those who need it, there will be meals, no-cost laundry services, and other supports in place as well.

“We are grateful to the Province for this important investment in supportive housing in Victoria,” said Lisa Helps, Victoria Mayor.

“We know from experience that these new, purpose-built buildings fit well into existing neighbourhoods and create safe, secure places for people to live in our city and in communities throughout the capital region.”

Once the proposal is complete and has been approved, BC Housing will select a non-profit housing partner to manage the building.

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Brishti Basu
Former Senior Staff Writer and Content Manager at Victoria Buzz.

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