SECHELT – People experiencing homelessness in the District of Sechelt will have new homes, with plans for new permanent supportive modular housing, that will offer residents a safe and stable home with 24/7 support services.

“There’s been an incredible need in this community and communities across the province, for supportive housing that not only provides shelter, but that also gives the supports people struggling with homelessness need to get back on their feet,” said Selina Robinson, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. “These homes are a new opportunity for the residents in Sechelt who need it most, because when people have access to suitable housing, they are able to focus on improving other areas of their lives.”

Forty new homes will be built for people in the community who are experiencing homelessness, helping them begin the transition toward more permanent housing. Each home will include a private bathroom and kitchen. Residents will also have access to a shared amenity space for programming, and laundry facilities.

“This announcement demonstrates the government’s commitment to addressing this crisis,” said Nicholas Simons, MLA for Powell River-Sunshine Coast . “The minister is aware of the need in our community, and how important this investment is to the Sunshine Coast.”

RainCity Housing will operate the building and provide staff. Staff will be on site 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to ensure residents are supported and the property is well maintained.

“RainCity Housing has operated several shelters on the Sunshine Coast over the past few years and could not have done this without the tremendous community spirit and support the community has provided to address homelessness,” said Aaron Munro, associate director, RainCity Housing. “We are thrilled at the possibility of doing more work on the Sunshine Coast to offer permanent, supported and affordable housing to members of this community who have experienced homelessness.”

BC Housing has submitted an application for official community plan and zoning bylaw amendment to the District of Sechelt for the new housing project on provincially owned land at Hightide Avenue and Lamprey Lane.

BC Housing will work with the community to gather feedback about the proposed homes. An open house is scheduled for Tuesday, April 3, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at 5591 Wharf Ave. The open house will give neighbours and the community an opportunity to learn more about the project, and ask questions of expert staff from BC Housing and staff from RainCity Housing.

Quick Facts:

• The Province is investing approximately $5.9 million in funding for the project in the District of Sechelt.
• This is part of a provincewide investment of $291 million to build 2,000 homes around the province, and more than $170 million over three years, to provide 24/7 staffing and support services.
• Through this program, more than 1,400 new homes for people most in need have started development throughout the province.
• Budget 2018 Budget provides further supports for people struggling with homelessness with the announcement of an additional 2,500 new homes with 24/7 support services.
• The Province will be working with local governments and community partners to develop a Homelessness Action Plan to reduce homelessness through permanent housing and services.

Learn More:

Read Homes for B.C., government’s 30-point plan to address housing affordability for British Columbians: www.bcbudget.gov.bc.ca/2018/homesbc/2018_Homes_For_BC.pdf

A backgrounder follows.

Contacts:

Lindsay Byers
Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
250-952-0617

Laura Mathews
BC Housing
604-439-8571

BACKGROUNDER

Services and supports provided for modular housing

All new modular housing buildings in the province are being provided with around-the-clock staffing to help young people, people with disabilities, seniors and others in critical housing need.

The Province is investing $170 million over three years to help those with the highest housing needs to build new beginnings. Experienced non-profit housing providers will provide support to tenants based on their assessed needs.

Some of the services and supports that will be provided to young people, seniors, people with disabilities and others who are homeless, or in danger of becoming homeless, are:

• meals;
• connecting residents to community supports, such as education and employment opportunities, and health and wellness services;
• individual or group support services, such as life skills, community information and social and recreational programs;
• case planning and needs assessment;
• other supports designed to assist residents in meeting their personal and housing goals, including culturally specific programs;
• assistance to access income assistance, pension benefits, disability benefits, obtaining a B.C. identification card or establishing a bank account;
• support for residents to learn how to operate and maintain a home; and
• no-cost laundry services, either on site or off site.

Contacts:

Lindsay Byers
Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
250-952-0617

Laura Mathews
BC Housing
604-439-8571