By Doug Collins

Government commits to more shelter beds in Kamloops

Oct 6, 2018 | 11:22 AM

KAMLOOPS — More short-term beds will open next month on the North Shore. The province made the announcement today.

Here is the text of the government’s release…

 The Government of British Columbia is opening additional shelter beds in Kamloops to make sure people in need have access to safe and secure housing as the cooler weather arrives.

In November, the Province will open approximately 30 short-term beds at 185 Royal Ave. The Canadian Mental Health Association will operate the building and provide residents with 24/7 support to help them transition into more permanent housing.

On-site supports will include life-skills training, employment assistance, connection and referral to community services, and support groups to help ensure people can achieve and maintain housing stability.

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This is an interim measure until new, permanent supportive housing is available. In spring 2019, residents will be relocated to the planned, new supportive modular housing at 317 Tranquille Rd. and 259 Victoria St. West.

The new shelter beds are in addition to the 55 temporary supportive homes under construction at 777 – 817 Mission Flats Rd.

In November, there will also be 13 additional shelter beds available at the Emerald Centre shelter at 271 West Victoria St., increasing the total number to 55 beds.

Quick Facts:

* The 2018 National Point-in-Time Homeless count found 201 people experiencing homelessness in Kamloops.

* In January 2018, the Province and the City of Kamloops partnered to develop two new permanent supportive housing developments, located at 317 Tranquille Rd. and 259 Victoria St. West, which will provide approximately 104 homes with 24/7 supports for people experiencing homelessness.

* The Province is developing a homelessness action plan informed by the results of the 2018 homeless counts, the comprehensive consultation on the poverty reduction strategy and engagements with experts on homelessness from around British Columbia.

The Kamloops North Shore Business Improvement Association is excited by the news.  This is a copy of their news release…

Release – North Shore BIA Supports Evolution of 185 Royal Avenue. Kamloops – Today’s announcement regarding the 185 Royal Avenue site is a welcome step toward resolving some of the social issues in this area over the last few years. NSBIA Executive Director, Jeremy Heighton notes, “While we acknowledge the critical role the JUMP program filled regarding a role of emergency service for displaced populations, the time for a new interim solution to providing sustainable services is welcomed.” Today’s announcement by B.C. Housing is a powerful evolution for bridge housing on the North Shore. Partners within this project have been working to create a more robust model for service delivery than the stop-gap programing of yesteryear. This project, while temporary, will provide stability in program delivery and the services to start participants on the road to recovery while addressing some of the community concerns around drop in foot traffic. “This project is a significant step forward for housing in our community” stated Bryce Herman, NSBIA President. “We are excited to see this evolution in the housing continuum and the potential benefits it will bring to our business corridors.” The temporary center will open shortly and will operate until late next spring. Following the opening of the affordable and supported housing units currently slated, this site will close. Unlike the current center, the new center will provide 24/7 wrap around supports and health care services for tenants, while drop in services will not be provided. We believe this housing project is an opportunity to deliver effective support services, stream into affordable housing, and empower people to rebuild their lives. – 30 –