By Ashley Legassic

Affordable seniors housing announced for Merritt

Mar 22, 2019 | 2:12 PM

MERRITT, B.C. — A proposed housing project for Merritt will mean 40 new affordable rentals for seniors.

B.C. Housing Minister Selina Robinson made the announcement alongside Merritt Mayor Linda Brown and representatives from ASK Wellness on Friday (March 22).

“The rising cost of housing and lack of affordable homes is preventing too many seniors from enjoying the good life they deserve after years of working hard,” said Robinson. “These new affordable rental homes will allow seniors to stay in their community and maintain the connections they have built over the years.”

The project would provide studio, one-bedroom and accessible apartments within a three-storey building.

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“We are thrilled to see additional provincial funding to address what is a critical housing need in our community; affordable homes for seniors,” said Brown. “As council, we look forward to seeing the proposed development plans and we are committed to working with ASK Wellness to ensure that this project meets the needs of seniors and the community at large.”

Executive director of ASK Wellness, Bob Hughes, said the society will help build the new homes for low- to moderate-income seniors on provincially owned land. ASK also owns and operates the adjacent Juniper House — a 30-unit building for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

“ASK Wellness Society has operated programming and housing in Merritt for the past twelve years and believes in the importance of providing affordable and safe housing for all,” said Hughes. “Seniors in Merritt are an important part of the community and the development of this housing project showcases our commitment to helping meet the affordable housing needs of Merritt.”

The project is in the design stage and construction is expected to begin in spring 2020.