BURNABY - The Province is partnering with the Progressive Housing Society on two new projects that will deliver 43 new supportive homes, along with 40 new shelter spaces, for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness in Burnaby.

“Everyone in the community benefits when people have access to the housing and supports they need,” said David Eby, Attorney General and Minister Responsible for Housing. “Access to safe and secure housing gives people the stability and dignity they deserve to begin rebuilding their lives.”

Construction will begin soon on new permanent supportive housing at 3986 Norland Ave. The four-storey modular apartment building will feature 43 units, each with a private bathroom and mini kitchen. Residents will be provided with wraparound supports, including health and wellness supports, meal programs and life and employment skills training. The project is being built next to Norland Place, another 52-unit supportive housing building that opened in October 2019.

In addition, the Province has opened a new 40-bed temporary emergency response centre (ERC) to provide shelter and wraparound supports and services for vulnerable people in the community during the COVID-19 pandemic. A dormitory building has been assembled in the parking lot of the sports fields at Burnaby Lake at 3860 Sperling Ave. Guests will have their own private room and access to services like meals, washroom and shower facilities, health-care services and other supports. Guests will be referred to the site by Fraser Health and BC Housing.

BC Housing is partnering with Progressive Housing Society to operate the new supportive housing and ERC. At least two staff members will be on site at each building at all times.

“Progressive Housing Society is committed to working with our government and community partners in finding solutions to homelessness in Burnaby,” said Jaye Treit, executive director, Progressive Housing Society. “These two new projects come at a time when shelter and housing are so urgently needed. They will allow individuals the opportunity to access a variety of housing and support services, to have hope for their future and to be a part of our community. We are honoured to be a part of their journey.”

Residents started moving into the new ERC on Feb. 1, 2021. Construction is anticipated to be complete on the Norland Avenue supportive housing project in spring 2021.