A new recovery centre has opened in Vernon that is giving individuals in the community a sober environment and on-site supports.

The facility, at 2504-43rd Ave., is operated by the John Howard Society. It includes a 10-bed drug and alcohol addictions recovery centre that incorporates a 12-step recovery program along with housing for eight individuals with at least one year of sobriety who are members of the society's on-site Sober Living Program.

Funding for the project:

• The B.C. government provided over $581,000 in mortgage financing toward the purchase and renovation of the project.

• The John Howard Society of the North Okanagan/Kootenay provided $150,000 in equity toward the development.

In response to extensive community consultations, the society created a Neighbourhood Council and will implement a Good Neighbour Agreement, a commitment between the housing provider, residents and community members to work toward a mutually beneficial relationship and communications plan.

Quotes:

Eric Foster, MLA, Vernon-Monashee -

"Our government is investing in more supportive housing options throughout the province for the people who need it most. We are proud to partner with the John Howard Society to provide the first recovery housing centre for low-income individuals in the community of Vernon."

"This project will give people in recovery a helping hand towards building a better future for themselves."

Rob Sawatzky, mayor, City of Vernon -

"I'd like to congratulate John Howard Society for having put an enormous amount of time and energy into this project, ensuring we have the resources we need right here in Vernon to help our community members in need on their journey of recovery. It's centres like this that result in a stronger, healthier and more sustainable community for all."

Barbara Levesque, executive director, John Howard Society of the North Okanagan/Kootenay -

"One of the challenges for those who seek sobriety is accessing housing that is safe and affordable. Working in partnership with all levels of government and with the support of community groups, we are now able to provide this type of housing along with onsite support programs for those in recovery in Vernon."

Quick Facts:

• Since 2001, the B.C. government has invested $3.6 billion to provide affordable housing for low-income individuals, seniors and families. This year, more than 98,000 B.C. households will benefit from provincial social housing programs and services.

• In 2012-13, the B.C. government invested over $8.2 million to provide subsidized housing and rent supplements for over 1,500 Vernon households.

• Since 1990, John Howard Society of the North Okanagan/Kootenay has provided valuable services in the Vernon area to individuals in all stages of recovery. The society not only provides homeless outreach services in the community, but also operates two shelters in Vernon with emergency shelter beds, transition beds and alcohol and drug supportive recovery program beds.

Learn More:

Information on the Community Partnership Initiative: http://www.bchousing.org/Initiatives/Financing/CPI

For more information on the John Howard Society of North Okanagan/Kootenay, please visit: www.jhsnok.ca

Contact:

Fergus McCann
BC Housing
778 452-6445