A 60-unit temporary housing complex is proposed for an area of south Nanaimo, between Old Victoria Rd. and the Trans-Canada Hwy. (BC Housing)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

supportive housing

New 60-bed temporary housing complex proposed for south Nanaimo

Jun 28, 2024 | 11:11 AM

NANAIMO — A new supportive housing complex is proposed for the city’s south end.

The provincial government, through their partnership with BC Housing, and the City of Nanaimo announced the planned 60-bed facility on Friday, June 28, to be constructed at 1030 Old Victoria Rd., near Petroglyph Provincial Park.

Housing minister Ravi Kahlon noted the facility, dubbed the Nanaimo Navigation Centre, will be geared towards people experiencing homelessness with 24/7 supports and services available for residents.

“People who have been chronically homeless often face complex challenges and need additional support to get back on their feet and start to rebuild their lives. That’s why we are working…to provide a centre where vulnerable people can access temporary accommodation while navigating a full suite of services tailored to their specific needs.”

Construction would come after public consultation and approvals, including a nominal lease agreement, from City Council.

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Vancouver Island Mental Health Society (VIMHS) would operate the facility under BC Housing’s HEART and HEARTH programs.

Similar programs are in place at 250 Terminal Ave., as well as a planned facility in Chase River along Hwy. 1.

Staff would be on site around the clock to monitor and work with residents.

Connection to mental health and substance use recovery programs will be offered, along with overdose prevention and a daily meal program.

“The centre will provide a safe and supportive access point in the continuum of housing, which is an important step in ensuring the well-being of people in this community,” Taryn O’Flanagan, executive director of VIMHS, said.

Each unit will include secure personal space to store belongings, along with communal washrooms, a commercial kitchen, laundry facilities, office space and other amenities.

The spaces would be temporary and be used to provide urgently needed shelter while more permanent housing options are explored.

BC Housing is accepting input on the proposal through their website.

No timeline was offered for when construction would begin or residents would move into the facility.

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