A new 51-unit transitional-housing project in Victoria is ready to house people who are homeless, living in shelters or at risk of becoming homeless, with renovations complete at the former Super 8 hotel.

The building will provide housing for individuals needing short-term housing to stabilize before transitioning into long-term stable housing.

PHS Community Services Society will manage the day-to-day operations of the building and provide support services to tenants, including a meal program, employment and life-skills training, and assistance accessing mental-health and addiction programs.

The Province has provided approximately $7.8 million for the purchase and renovation of the building at 2915 Douglas St. Renovations began last fall, and included adding exterior lighting, upgrading the fire system, installing a new sprinkler system, new flooring and a secured front entrance.

Quotes:

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

“Addressing homelessness continues to be a priority for the Province. We’ve worked hard to find appropriate housing options for the homeless population in Victoria, many of whom were part of the former tent city. The Super 8 building offers safe and stable housing for the people need it most.”

Andy Bond, senior director of housing, PHS Community Services Society –

“We look forward to helping tenants get settled in over the coming weeks. Providing people with a safe, comfortable place they can call their own helps to foster a sense of community, and encourages residents to accept and support one another while empowering them to determine their own course of recovery. At PHS, we’re passionate about providing support for people who often feel alone and marginalized, and this new space will allow us to do just that.”

Quick Facts:

• Since 2001, the B.C. government has invested $4.9 billion to provide affordable housing for low-income individuals, seniors and families.
• More than 104,000 B.C. households benefit from a diverse range of provincial housing programs and services.
• Last year, the Province invested close to $32 million to provide subsidized housing and rent supplements for more than 5,100 households in Victoria.

Learn More:

To learn more about services and supports for the homeless or those at risk of homelessness, please visit: https://www.bchousing.org/housing-assistance/homelessness-services

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