SAANICH – Thanks to a partnership between the Province through BC Housing, the federal government and the Capital Regional District (CRD), 52 new homes with 24/7 support services are now available for people experiencing homelessness in Saanich.
The site, located at 2933, 2941, and 2949 Albina St., will be operated by Our Place Society, which will provide a range of services such as security, life-skills training, employment assistance, counselling, physical and mental-health resources, meals, and referrals to addiction treatment and recovery services.
The $11.5 million development was funded by the Province’s Building BC: Supportive Housing Fund and $6.9 million from the federal Rapid Housing Initiative.
“We’re excited to be a partner in offering this opportunity for true and permanent supportive housing. Through our transitional housing program, our staff worked incredibly hard to help stabilize this community of men and women who have struggled with survival on the streets. We can’t wait to see the residents further blossom in this new environment,” said Julian Daly, CEO, Our Place Society.
The five-storey modular building consists of four fully accessible studio suites and an amenity space for residents, office space for staff, and a secure outdoor gathering area. The Province is providing approximately $1.26 million in annual operating funding.
“With the opening of Albina in Saanich, organizations like Our Place Society are better positioned to assist those struggling to maintain their housing, achieve lasting stability and a long-term recovery from homelessness. Projects like this, which are essential to addressing the region’s housing crisis, are only possible through the ongoing and effective collaborations between local, provincial and federal partners,” said Zac de Vries, board director, CRD, and chair, Capital Region Housing Corporation.
Business Examiner Staff
