The Province, through BC Housing, is leasing the Knights Inn in Prince George to provide 44 supportive homes.
“By leasing the Knights Inn, there will be 44 more supportive homes for people living outside or in emergency shelters,” said David Eby, Attorney General and Minister Responsible for Housing. “We know there’s an urgent need for housing in Prince George, and our government will continue to build more affordable housing for everyone.”
The former hotel will be operated by the Prince George Native Friendship Centre (PGNFC), an experienced non-profit housing operator. The friendship centre will provide residents with support services, including daily meals and health and wellness support services. At least two staff members will be on site 24/7 to provide around-the-clock support to residents.
“The PGNFC is committed to providing a diverse range of services and supports through a trauma-informed and cultural approach, as inclusiveness, friendship and kinship are key to building strong relationships, understandings and safety,” said Barb Ward-Burkitt, executive director, PGNFC. “We are excited, in partnership with BC Housing, to open 44 units of culturally safe housing units to complement and support other 24-hour adult housing facilities in Prince George.”
BC Housing funds approximately 150 nightly shelter spaces in Prince George.
People in need of housing are encouraged to connect with local outreach workers from the PGNFC, Association Advocating for Women and Community, and BC Housing.
Residents are expected move into the Knights Inn in early November.
Quick Facts:
- The Province, through BC Housing, is leasing the Knights Inn for two years for approximately $1 million.
- BC Housing is also providing PGNFC with an annual operating subsidy of approximately $1.5 million.
- In addition to the Knights Inn, 127 supportive homes are either under construction or in development in Prince George.
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/