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The controversial Cornerstone shelter has been extended for a fourth time.
This time, however, the extension is indefinite, as the provincial government says it “will remain open until another location is found or people are relocated and housed.”
Around $2.4 million in funding is also being allocated to the 80-bed shelter, which was scheduled to close on June 30, 2019 after the most recent extension.
BC Housing is currently working with the City of Kelowna to building much-needed housing for those at risk of or experiencing homelessness in the community.
That includes 187 homes with 24/7 support over four different locations, two of which have opened in the past seven months.
The City of Kelowna released a statement regarding today's decision, saying that it was in full support of BC Housing's decision to keep the shelter open.
“We understand and share the frustration of the community around the Cornerstone shelter but if we close now, it would pose a greater risk of impact to the community and the residents of Cornerstone,” says Lance Kayfish, the City's director of community safety.
“Not only are people provided with shelter but the supports inside the shelter save lives.”
Cornerstone shelter originally opened at 425 Leon Ave. in November 2017 and was supposed to be temporary.
However, in March 2018, it was announced that the shelter would stay open for another year, news that the Province of B.C. confirmed in July 2018.
This extension occurred despite a number of complaints from local businesses about escalating crime, drug use and vandalism linked to the shelter.
Despite those concerns, which have not subsided, the shelter is here to stay for now.
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