People in need of shelter in Campbell River will continue to have a safe, warm place to stay until the end of June 2016.

The B.C. government is providing $60,000 to extend operations at the 16-bed temporary winter shelter at 1251 Cypress St.

Campbell River Family Services will continue to operate the shelter.

The Province is also taking the following steps to support homeless individuals in the community:

• Providing $70,000 for outreach services to help connect individuals who are homeless to appropriate supports, such as mental health and addictions services, in the Campbell River area;
• Supplying 10 rent supplements to the John Howard Society to connect those in need to more stable and long-term housing.

The $130,000 in funding is in addition to the $68,000 the Province provided last year to operate the shelter from November 2015 to the end of April 2016.

Quotes:

Rich Coleman, Minister of Natural Gas Development and Minister Responsible for Housing –

“The Province is extending winter shelter operations in Campbell River because we understand the importance of providing a safe, warm place to sleep. The opportunity for people struggling with homelessness to access supports gives them a greater chance to turn their lives around and get off the streets permanently.”

Andy Adams, mayor of Campbell River –

“The City of Campbell River is extremely appreciative for the continued support of the Government of B.C. and for extending funding that directly supports those who are the most vulnerable and in need in the community. We look forward to working collaboratively with our provincial partners to find long-term sustainable solutions.”

Camille Lagueux, executive director, Campbell River Family Services –

“This past winter we were able to provide shelter to 16 individuals per night throughout the season. We are grateful to receive additional funding from the Province to continue providing shelter beds for vulnerable members of our community.”

Quick Facts:

• Since 2001, the B.C. government has invested $4.4 billion to provide affordable housing for low-income individuals, seniors and families.
• This year, more than 102,500 B.C. households will benefit from provincial social housing programs and services.
• Last year, the Province invested over $3.7 million to provide subsidized housing and rent supplements for more than 700 households in Campbell River.

Learn More:

For more information on affordable housing programs and the province’s efforts to end homelessness in B.C., visit: www.housingmattersbc.ca/factsheets.html

BC Housing: www.bchousing.org

Follow BC Housing on Twitter: @BC_Housing