A project first piloted by the City of Duncan that used a new model for supportive housing is gaining some traction on the provincial level.
It’s called ‘The Village’, and consists of 34 individual housing units and wrap-around services to help previously un-sheltered people the chance to transition to more traditional housing.
The cost of these units is significantly lower than costs for traditional multi-unit buildings and can operate with a lifespan of 15 years. The space needed for The Village is also much smaller.
Now four island mayors are calling on the province to secure funding to take The Village concept province-wide.
“The Village model works – it saves lives, cuts costs, and provides pathways to stability and healing. Every day we delay means more lives lost and greater strain on our systems,” said Duncan Mayor Michelle Staples.
Some examples of The Village model are already at work in Duncan, Victoria and Port Alberni.
Campbell River City Council advocated for a similar partnership with BC Housing earlier this year.
“Later this fall 40 temporary housing units will open in Campbell River, operated by Lookout Housing Society and funded through the HEARTH program. This project will offer safe, indoor shelter to people experiencing homelessness in Campbell River and support a healthy and safe community for all by alleviating issues in our downtown,” said Campbell River Mayor Kermit Dahl.
In a release, the city of Duncan says that the Village Project has helped 9 individuals get off the streets and into residential treatment, market housing or conventional supportive housing.
