The provincial government announced Friday it has purchased property at 1176 Yates Street to provide permanent, supportive homes for homeless individuals in Victoria.
“This project is the next step in our ongoing work to make sure vulnerable people in Victoria have a place to call home, with wraparound supports to help them build a better future,” Carole James, MLA for Victoria-Beacon Hill, said in a statement.
“We know supportive housing makes a real difference for the residents and for communities, and we will continue to work with our partners to move people into the homes they deserve.”
The government said the project would provide up to 40 safe and secure homes with “wraparound supports.” Pending municipal approvals, construction is expected to begin in December 2021.
“This is yet another contribution by the Province to help solve the housing challenges in the capital region,” Victoria Mayor Lisa Helps said.
“We look forward to moving this development through the municipal approvals process as quickly as possible as our way to support the provincial government in the great work they’re doing to provide supportive housing across our region.”
The provincial government said as, with all supportive housing, an experienced non-profit housing provider will be hired to manage the building.
The housing will be comprised of self-contained studio homes. Residents will be provided with 24/7 on-site staff and support services, including meal programs, life and employment skills training, and health and wellness support services.
The B.C. government provided approximately $1.8 million through the Building BC: Supportive Housing Fund to purchase the property.
The government said there are approximately 480 new homes in development or already open for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness in the Capital Regional District (CRD).
Last month, the B.C. government said it had bought two lots at 1053 and 1075 Meares Street for supportive housing. BC Housing is currently developing a proposal to combine the two lots for at least 50 new units.
The government also purchased Paul’s Motor Inn and Comfort Inn for temporary housing for people experiencing homelessness.
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