Support for people in need

More housing, shelter for people in need coming to Prince George

Dec 17, 2020 | 12:51 PM

PRINCE GEORGE — An early Christmas gift for people in need in Prince George as the Province has announced new homes and a new shelter for the city.

The Province has announced the purchase of the National Hotel, through BC Housing. It will be renovated to provide 27 homes with wraparound supports, adding onto the existed 18 units BC Housing has been leasing since summer 2019. BC Housing will choose a non-profit service provider to manage the building with staff on-site 24/7 providing supports, meal programs, life and employment skill training, and health and wellness support. These units are scheduled to be ready in early 2022.

“Everyone deserves a place to call home. We are working hard to make sure people experiencing homelessness in Prince George have a safe and secure place to stay,” said David Eby, Attorney General and Minister Responsible for Housing, in a release. “When vulnerable people have access to housing and shelter with supports, they can stabilize and rebuild their lives, and the whole community benefits.”

Existing residents will be able to stay in their homes through renovations. Housing applications will be reviewed and tenants will be selected as the renovations wrap up. Monthly rent will be at the social assistance level of $375.

Meanwhile, a new 30-bed temporary shelter is being added at 1151 2nd Avenue and is scheduled to open in January 2021. It will operate 24/7 during the winter months. It will be operated by the Prince George Native Friendship Centre. Guests will receive daily meals and access to support services. The Province is providing approximately $492,000 to operate the shelter until June 30, 2021.

“The pathways into homelessness are complex. Housing solves homelessness; a simple answer to a complex problem, but no less true for its simplicity,” said Barb Ward-Burkitt, executive director, Prince George Native Friendship Centre. “The Prince George Native Friendship Centre is committed to providing a diverse range of services and supports through a trauma informed and cultural approach as inclusiveness, friendship and kinship is the way to building strong relationships, understandings and safety. We are excited to open the new shelter to complement and support other 24-hour adult housing facilities in Prince George.”