The Province is providing $4.5 million to purchase the Super 8 motel, located at 1706 Main St., for supportive housing.

The building will be converted into housing units and emergency shelter beds for those who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, have mental health issues or have drug and alcohol addictions. It will be called Compass Court.

The renovation of the shelter space is expected to be completed by early 2018. The residential units and program space are expected to be completed by spring 2018.

The Penticton and District Society for Community Living has been selected to receive the capital funding. The society will also oversee the renovations and manage the property once it is complete. The Salvation Army will relocate and operate the emergency shelter program on this site.

The Province and the societies will hold a neighbourhood open house prior to the public hearing on Aug. 15, 2017. Neighbours and local businesses have been invited to ask questions and voice any concerns.

Quotes:

Selina Robinson, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing –

“We know how important supportive social housing is in helping the most vulnerable find stability and focus on their health. It’s one of the reasons our government has committed to create 114,000 new affordable housing units over the next 10 years. Homelessness continues to be an issue in Penticton and an investment like this will be critical in addressing the needs. This is why our government is committed to developing a provincial homelessness action plan, which will help reduce homelessness through permanent housing and services.”

Tony Laing, executive director, Penticton and District Society for Community Living –

“Our society is excited to be working with BC Housing, the Salvation Army and the other partners on this much-needed housing for our community. Compass Court will fill a gap in services that Penticton citizens have required for some time, and allow people to move along the continuum towards more independent living. Everyone needs a home.”

René van der Meijden, community ministry director, Salvation Army –

“The Salvation Army helps restore hope and dignity to vulnerable and marginalized people. Through the expansion of the shelter space for Compass Court, we will make an important contribution to provide safe housing and shelter for those community members with the greatest need.”

Learn More:

For more information on affordable housing programs and the Province’s efforts to end homelessness in B.C., please visit: www.bchousing.org