Homeless shelter work begins
Wayne Moore - Jul 03, 2020 - Biz Releases

Photo: Shawn Moore

Ground was broken Thursday on what will be a new 38-unit homeless shelter on Ellis Street.

The shelter, on land next to the former OK Builders site, is expected to open in the fall.

The province announced plans for the three-storey modular apartment building in May, much to the surprise of nearby businesses in the city’s north end.

The city purchased the property for $1.5 million and is leasing it back to BC Housing for the project.

The BC government is providing $9.5 million for the development, along with an annual operating subsidy of $1.3 million.

The Canadian Mental Health Association Kelowna will operate the facility.

CMHA staff will provide residents with 24-7 on-site staff and support services.

The units will contain private washrooms, showers and kitchens. It will also contain a commercial kitchen, along with shared dining and lounge areas, laundry and a medical room.

The 38 new beds mean the city will be opening up more than 100 spaces for the homeless, allowing it to close down the Recreation Park temporary camp in the fall.


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