VERNON - The Province is working in partnership to deliver new affordable rental homes for people with low to moderate incomes in Vernon and Oliver.

"People in the southern Interior need more affordable rental housing," said David Eby, Attorney General and Minister Responsible for Housing. "These two projects reflect the commitment our government has made to working with municipalities and community partners to open appropriate, contemporary affordable rental homes, not just as a place for people to live, but as essential infrastructure vital for the success of any community."

Construction has started on Phase 2 of Albert Place, located at 3610 - 25th Ave. in Vernon. The project will be operated by the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Vernon and District Branch and provide 29 affordable rental homes for families and seniors. CMHA already operates another provincially funded 18-unit building on site, which is close to transit, grocery stores, a senior centre and a child care facility.

In addition, construction on a 46-unit project at 5931 Airport St. in Oliver is scheduled to start in the coming months. The building will be owned and operated by M'akola Housing Society and provide affordable rental homes for Indigenous and non-Indigenous families, Elders, seniors and people with disabilities. The development is located near shops, services and amenities including outdoor recreation.

Both projects are funded through the Province's Building BC: Community Housing Fund. The Province is providing a grant of about $3 million for the project in Vernon and about $4.6 million for the project in Oliver.

The Province is working in partnership to increase the supply of affordable rental housing in the Okanagan for people at a range of income levels. Including these new projects, there are nearly 1,900 rental homes completed or underway.