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Not even 24 hours after the controversial Agassiz Road housing project was approved, the provincial government has announced more supportive housing for Kelowna.
The project will be located at 280 McIntosh Rd. in Rutland and include up to 50 homes.
"We know homelessness is a problem that has been ignored for too long in the region and around the province. We need to act now and build more homes for people who need them," said Selina Robinson, minister of housing.
"Projects like this not only get people out of the cold and into safe, secure housing, they also help people rebuild their lives with the right supports, dignity and respect."
It’ll be funded through the Building BC: Supportive Housing Fund and operated by the John Howard Society of Central and South Okanagan.
Residents will have a self-contained studio with a private washroom and kitchenette.
Staff will be onside 24/7 to provide support services to tenants if needed, including daily meals, life skills training, resume building and access to employment opportunities.
"Everyone deserves safe, secure shelter," said Mayor Colin Basran. "As addressed in the Journey Home Strategy and our community plan, these new homes will help house some of our community's most vulnerable residents."
The provincial government will provide $2.95-million for the project, along with an operating subsidy.
Residents will be charged a monthly rental rate of $375, which is the social assistance shelter allowance provided by the Province of B.C. to those experiencing homelessness.
Contingent on permit approvals, construction is estimated to begin in spring 2019 and be completed by fall 2019.
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