A site has been selected for a centre in Nanaimo to provide services for people who are experiencing long-term homelessness and require a higher level of support than typically offered at a shelter.
Located on city-owned land at 1030 Old Victoria Rd, the proposed centre will be operated by the Vancouver Island Mental Health Society, which will provide health services, such as connections to mental-health and substance-use programs, services focused on stabilization and connections to housing, overdose prevention and response programs, and a daily meal program.
Plans for the facility include approximately 60 private sleeping units, each with a locking door, bed and place to store personal belongings. The building will include communal washrooms, a commercial kitchen, laundry/utility room, amenity room and office.
The centre was first announced by the province in September 2020, following city council voting 7-2 a month earlier to write to the province to express interest in being selected for a navigation centre after learning the province was interested in an additional site on the Island.
In a press release, Ravi Kahlon, B.C. minister of housing, said that people who have been chronically homeless often face complex challenges requiring additional support.
"That's why we are working with the City of Nanaimo to provide a centre where vulnerable people can access temporary accommodation while navigating a full suite of services tailored to their specific needs," he said.
In the release, Mayor Leonard Krog called the navigation centre vital for addressing homelessness in the community.
"This initiative demonstrates this council's commitment to providing necessary support and housing solutions for those in need," he said.
To find out more, visit B.C. Housing's website at http://letstalkhousingbc.ca/nanaimo-1030-Old-Victoria-Road.
