People in the City of Burnaby experiencing or at risk of homelessness will benefit from approximately 52 supportive homes with around-the-clock support, to be built in partnership with the Government of British Columbia.

“People need to have access to safe and secure housing,” said Selina Robinson, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. “Our government understands the critical challenge of homelessness facing communities throughout the province. These new homes in Burnaby, like others around the province, will provide the stable and supportive environment that people need in order to get to a point where they can transition into more permanent housing.”

The new homes are proposed to be located at 3986 Norland St. Progressive Housing Society has been selected as the non-profit operator, and will provide a client-focused response to help people maintain their housing and receive support in the areas of their lives in which they need it most.

Residents will have access to shared amenity space, such as laundry facilities and access to 24/7 support services, including meal programs, life-skills training and health and wellness supports. Each home will be self-contained, and include a private bathroom and kitchen.

Subject to successful completion of community engagement, the city and the provincial government are prepared to move forward on this project, with construction expected to be completed for the spring of 2019.

There will be opportunities for the community to learn more about the project, and provide feedback that will inform project decisions. The first open house will be held in the coming weeks.

Quotes:

Janet Routledge, MLA, Burnaby North –

“I'm thrilled the City of Burnaby and our government are partnering to build this much-needed housing. These supportive housing units will get those who are either homeless or at risk of being homeless into a safe and secure home, where they'll be connected to the wellness and employment services they need.”

Anne Kang, MLA, Burnaby-Deer Lake –

“People who are experiencing homelessness are part of our community, and need our support to get back on their feet. I am happy that, after so many years, the Province is stepping up and giving people who need it most safe and secure homes, as well as 24/7 support.”

Raj Chouhan, MLA, Burnaby-Edmonds –

“We have been calling for more supportive housing units in Burnaby for years. I am proud that our government and the City of Burnaby are working to provide support for the most-vulnerable people in our community. I look forward to seeing the positive impact this will have for the residents, as well as our community at large.”

Katrina Chen, MLA, Burnaby-Lougheed –

“For too long, people have been left to fall through the cracks as the cost of living has skyrocketed. With supportive housing we aren’t just building homes, but creating an environment where people feel supported and are treated with dignity. It’s important to recognize that behind the homelessness crisis are people with families and stories, and the community benefits by supporting them.”

Derek Corrigan, mayor, City of Burnaby –

“We are so pleased to have in this provincial government a partner who recognizes that people who are homeless don’t just need a place to sleep during a night. They need a home that offers ongoing security and support, day and night, week to week and month to month. Because these homes will be for Burnaby residents who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness – people who are part of our community, but who do not have safe and stable housing, I’m confident that this project will benefit, not only the people who receive its services, but our entire community, as it provides homes and necessary support services for Burnaby residents in need. I look forward to discussing this proposed project with our community.”

Jaye Treit, executive director, Progressive Housing Society –

“Progressive Housing Society is very excited to be working in partnership with BC Housing and the City of Burnaby to provide safe and secure supportive housing for some of Burnaby's most vulnerable citizens. We know this project will make a positive change for the people we serve.”

Quick Facts:

• The Building BC: Rapid Response to Homelessness program is part of the government's action to address the housing needs of British Columbia.
• The Province is investing approximately $7.6 million in the Burnaby project.
• This is part of a provincewide investment of $291 million to build 2,000 homes around the province, and more than $170 million over three years to provide 24/7 staffing and support services.
• Through this program, more than 1,700 new homes for people most in need have started development in 18 communities throughout the province.
• Budget 2018 provides further supports for people struggling with homelessness, with the announcement of an additional 2,500 new homes with 24/7 support services.
• The Province will be working with local governments and community partners to develop a Homelessness Action Plan, to reduce homelessness through permanent housing and services.

Learn More:

Read Homes for B.C., government’s 30-point plan to address housing affordability for British Columbians:
bcbudget.gov.bc.ca/2018/homesbc/2018_Homes_For_BC.pdf

To find out what the Province is doing to improve housing affordability, visit:
news.gov.bc.ca/factsheets/bc-government-addressing-housing-affordability-challenges

A backgrounder follows.