The Province is partnering with New View Society on a proposal to provide 50 new homes for people in Port Coquitlam who require mental health support to stay housed.

The Province has purchased properties at 2365 and 2371 Kelly Ave. and will begin the process to redevelop the land.

“These homes are part of our efforts to work in partnership to deliver homes for a range of people in need in the Tri-Cities,” said Mike Farnworth, MLA for Port Coquitlam. “These new homes will make a big difference in the community and provide security and peace of mind for people who need supports to stay housed long-term.”

These proposed mental health-focused homes would be operated by New View Society, which would be on site 24/7. The homes would support people who can live relatively independently, with the availability of on-site mental health services to ensure success in maintaining long-term housing.

“We are so excited to be able to expand housing capacity within the Tri-Cities for those challenged by mental illness,” said Sonja Sinclair, board chair, New View Society. “Many barriers exist for those living with a disability, and being able to operate housing in a way that we know supports their overall well-being means better outcomes for our residents, as well as contributing towards New View’s larger vision of community health through mental health. Many thanks to BC Housing for enabling this incredible project to move forward.”

Residents would have access to a clubhouse program, where people can socialize, participate in recreational activities and learn new skills.

The proposed six-storey, 50-unit building would provide 30 studio suites and 20 two-bedroom apartments. This model would allow people to either live on their own or with a roommate.

The property does not require rezoning. BC Housing will submit applications to the City of Port Coquitlam for development and building permits this summer.

“The city welcomes this announcement from BC Housing about the purchase and creation of additional supportive housing units in Port Coquitlam,” said Brad West, mayor, Port Coquitlam. “This will help provide much-needed supportive housing for our residents. We look forward to working with New View Society and BC Housing on this important project.”

Neighbours can find out more about BC Housing's plans for this property and ask questions here: https://letstalkhousingbc.ca/port-coquitlam-kelly-avenue

Quick Facts:

• The Province provided approximately $6.1 million through the Building BC: Supportive Housing Fund to purchase the land for this project.
• An independent appraisal of the site was completed and supports the purchase price.
• In addition to these proposed 50 supportive homes, there are nearly 420 affordable homes completed or underway in the Tri-Cities.

Learn More:

A map showing the location of all announced provincially funded housing projects in B.C. is available online: https://www.bchousing.org/homes-for-BC

To learn about the steps the Province is taking to tackle the housing crisis and deliver affordable homes for British Columbians, visit: https://workingforyou.gov.bc.ca/