Two new homes for those in need are opening in Courtenay this afternoon.
WeCan Shelter Society, a non-profit that builds homes for the unhoused out of shipping containers, is holding a Grand Opening for two homes at Maple Pool Campground ahead of the holidays.
Co-Founder of WeCan Charlene Davis says they shifted to a different paradigm when building the homes.
“We normally had a schedule that would allow us to create a home within two to three months, and we got a new crew of volunteers who said this could be done in two or three weekends,” said Davis.
“That’s indeed what they did, they tried and succeeded, bringing in two units ready to be occupied at the same time.”
Davis says this new crew was able to get all the supplies needed on-site and ready to use, bringing in the manpower to get the work finished.
With these homes coming in the middle of a big housing crisis, Davis says they recognize the impact it has on downtown businesses.
“I don’t think it’s any secret that homelessness isn’t going away, isn’t getting better, and isn’t being addressed in a meaningful way by the parties that should be doing it,” said Davis.
“Us volunteers are going to make our home a good place for everyone.”
These new homes will not only give the residents an address for job applications, but also a shower, toilet, kitchenette with a sink, fridge, cooking devices, a lock unit, an outside deck to enjoy the outdoors, and a built-in bed.
For the society, they are looking for a second site to build more units because every space at Maple Pool Campground is full. They also plan on tackling a second portion of the homeless population in a more meaningful way.
The opening of the two homes starts at 1:00 p.m. today.
