The Province, through BC Housing, has purchased the former Fortune Motel in Kamloops.

The motel will initially be renovated to provide up to 40 temporary supportive homes for people experiencing homelessness. BC Housing will work with the City of Kamloops and the community on a plan for the permanent use of the property.

“Buying this property means that dozens of people who are struggling to find a place to live in Kamloops will have safe and secure shelter, as we work with the community on plans for this property to provide the housing people need for years to come,” said David Eby, Attorney General and Minister Responsible for Housing. “While there is much more to do, helping people come inside, keeping them off of the streets and out of the parks, is good news for them and the community.”

BC Housing is in the process of finding an experienced non-profit operator to manage the project. A request for proposals will be issued in the coming weeks.

The future operator will provide support services, such as daily meals, mentorship and life-skills training. It will also support residents to access mental health and addiction treatment for those who are seeking this type of support. There will also be multiple staff on site 24-7 who will monitor the property and support residents’ well-being.

Located at 654 Fortune Dr., the former motel includes two buildings – a larger 28-unit building and a smaller 12-unit building. Prior to opening in early fall 2021, the property will undergo renovations to create an amenity and programming space, as well as upgrades to the rooms and broader site upgrades to ensure the property is secure and safe for residents and the community.

BC Housing will be applying to rezone the property later this year and will submit a proposal to the city outlining potential long-term plans for the site, which BC Housing has yet to determine. BC Housing will work closely with the municipality and the community throughout the planning process and rezoning phase for this property.

The future non-profit operator will also set up a community advisory committee that will oversee the supportive housing’s integration within the community and address any concerns raised by people in the neighbourhood.

Neighbours can find out more about BC Housing’s plans for this property and ask questions here: letstalkhousingbc.ca/kamloops-654-fortune

Quick Facts:

• The Province purchased the Fortune Motel for approximately $3.6 million through the Supportive Housing Fund.
• An independent appraisal of the site was completed and supports the purchase price.
• In addition to the purchase, the Province, through BC Housing, will be covering renovation costs and providing a monthly subsidy to the future non-profit operator to assist in managing the building.

Learn More:

A map showing the location of all announced provincially funded housing projects in B.C. is available online: https://www.bchousing.org/homes-for-BC

To learn about the steps the Province is taking to tackle the housing crisis and deliver affordable homes for British Columbians, visit: https://workingforyou.gov.bc.ca/

Contact:

Ministry of Attorney General and Responsible for Housing
Media Relations
778 678-1572

BC Housing
Media Relations
media@bchousing.org