Some people who are unhoused in Campbell River may soon be getting access to shelter with a new 40-unit shelter opening its doors.
The project, located at 1299 Homewood Road, has been named HEARTH Village.
This project will be run by BC Housing in collaboration with BC Housing and the City of Campbell River
“I’m excited that our government is partnering with the City of Campbell River for the creation of HEARTH Village,” said Michele Babchuk, MLA for North Island.
“This project was first proposed at the Union of BC Municipalities conference in September 2023, and I’m proud of how quickly we’ve been able to move from concept to construction.”
Up to 40 people will have access to the village and be able to store their belongings in a private unit, not unlike Victoria’s Tiny Town, which was operated by Our Place Society then bought up by BC Housing for use elsewhere.
Also similarly to Tiny Town, there will be shared amenities and washrooms with 24/7 staff and security,, and it too will be operated by an experienced local non-profit organization.
“People sheltering outdoors need a safe space to sleep, and through our new Homelessness Encampment Action Response Temporary Housing (HEARTH) program, we’re providing that option along with basic amenities,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing.
“We will continue to work with the City of Campbell River and other municipalities throughout the province to develop more housing options so people in our communities have options to move indoors.”
HEARTH Village was conceptualized by a handful of Campbell River organizations who then brought it to BC Housing’s attention, who will be providing the bulk of the funding for this endeavour.
The Province predicts that if all goes well, this project could be open by mid-2024.
