The Vancouver Island Mental Health Society owns and operates 285 Rosehill, featuring 23 affordable units for those needing mental health or addictions support. (Spencer Sterritt/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

NEW SUPPORTS

New affordable housing with mental health and addiction supports opens in Nanaimo

Dec 18, 2020 | 9:25 AM

NANAIMO — A three-story complex of low-rent housing has begun welcoming residents in Nanaimo.

The doors officially opened on 285 Rosehill St. at Terminal Ave on Dec. 1, providing 23 studio apartments for those with mental health and addiction services.

Owned and operated by the Vancouver Island Mental Health Society, the apartments are offered for well below market rate with rents ranging from $375 to $800 per month depending on income.

“The intention of the building is independent housing. We can provide some additional support if someone is in need at a particular time but most of the residents that live in this building are proven to be able to live independently.,” Taryn O’Flanagan, executive director for Vancouver Island Mental Health Society, told NanaimoNewsNOW.

The project was originally due for completion in October.

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O’Flanagan said approximately two-thirds of the building is full with applications available through VIMHS for the remaining suites.

“We still have several rent-geared-to-income units available so that’s who we’re looking for applicants for at this time but we’re always open to having folks apply and stay on that waitlist.”

The province committed $2.3 million in funding including an annual operating budget. VIMHS provided $928,000 in land and building costs. The City of Nanaimo contributed $54,000 in municipal waivers.

“”Addressing the city’s health and housing needs is a priority for this council and this investment provides much-needed support for our citizens dealing with mental health and addiction challenges,” Mayor Leonard Krog said.

The Rosehill building is part of around 850 new, affordable homes announced by the province for the Nanaimo area.

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