If you take a drive through the downtown Kelowna section of the Okanagan Rail Trail, you will be met by a canvasing outdoor shelter compound.  Many point it out as an eyesore, with very few solutions being brought forward.  This population struggles with mental health and addiction problems.  The need for a supportive housing program is dire.  It is good to see we're as a community setting plans into action today.  

 

The city of Kelowna announced today its plan for 60 interim housing units for those currently struggling with homelessness.  This development will consist of 60 single-room units that will provide supportive housing for those in need.  Located on city-owned land at 759 Crowley Ave.  This is just one part of the BC plan.  

 

Work has already begun on this project.  However, these units won't be ready for use until early 2024.  Some would like to see this project sped up as our nighttime temperatures have begun to dip below the freezing mark. 

 

Operations of these facilities will be handled by an experienced non-profit that has yet to be named.  This will allow for added support to be provided for the occupants.  For example, daily meal services, skills training, staffing and housing system support.  Individuals using this program will require varying types of support.  As a result, each member will be assessed and provided the level of care needed.

 

This project will be funded using the $5.4 million grant from the Province through BC Housing.  There will be a further $2.7 million for operation funding annually.  This will be known as the Homeless Encampment Action Response Temporary Housing (HEARTH) program.  

There will be a further 60 units made available at a later date. The complete details of this project have yet to be released.  The province has 77,000 homes province-wide, either delivered or in transit.  1,700 of those are allocated to Kelowna.  It was noted by the city that these temporary housing developments are being created while a more permanent solution is developed for a permanent solution.  

 

In conclusion, it is great to see the framework of the project laid out.  It will be encouraging to see the first units available for use.  I am hopeful this program can be carried out successfully for many years to come until a permanent solution is formed.  I have confidence in this model as it provides services for the individuals who will occupy these tiny homes.  These groups often need more than just housing, they need support in various avenues.  It is very helpful to make these resources easy to access under one roof.