A new $4.2 million development in Port Coquitlam is not only providing supportive homes for individuals living with mental health challenges, but also acting as a community hub for mental wellness.

Iris House, located at 2050 Mary Hill Road, is a new building owned and operated by New View Society that provides 10 beds for adults living with mental health challenges.

In addition, the society fundraised to build amenity space in the building which includes a community kitchen and a clubhouse for their broader programming requirements, as well as permanent office space.

• The Government of Canada contributed $655,000 towards Iris House through the Homelessness Partnership Strategy and a $10,000 Seed Funding Grant through Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation.

• The Province invested $1,622,524 and will provide an annual operating subsidy of $89,363.

• The New View Society provided the land valued at approximately $700,000, fundraised equity of approximately $545,722 and will require approximately $715,870 in mortgage financing.

Quotes:

Mayor Greg Moore, City of

"Like most communities, Port Coquitlam has residents who are living every day with mental health challenges. It's inspiring to see societies such as New View work diligently to successfully leverage available resources to help people in our community. I commend them for their work and look forward to seeing the positive impact Iris House will make."

Jill Calder, executive director, New View Society -

"New View Society operates to support individuals and their families in the Tri-Cities who may be facing challenges with their mental wellness. I'd like to thank our partners and our donors who ensure we can provide housing and support services to those who need our help. Together we can have an even greater impact in the mental wellness of our community."

Quick Facts:

• Over the last decade, the Province has invested $2.8 billion to provide affordable housing for low income individuals, seniors and families. This year, more than 95,000 B.C. households will benefit from provincial social housing programs and services.
• New View Society has been providing services and housing supports to multi-barrier individuals with mental illness in the Tri-Cities for over 34 years.

Learn More:

To learn more about provincial programs and services to address homelessness, visit www.bchousing.org/Initiatives/Creating/PHI

To learn more about programs and services offered by New View Society please visit www.newviewsociety.org

Contact:

Michelle Frilund
BC Housing
604 456-8895
604 318-4419 (cell)