Two single-family homes are now under construction, with the help of an $8.4-million partnership between governments and a local non-profit, for 14 seniors at risk of homelessness in Burnaby.
The province says Holly House, a combined supportive- and assisted-living facility, at 7492 Holly St., will address an urgent need for seniors who have physical and mental-health needs.
Holly House will be run by the Progressive Housing Society, with services provided by the Fraser Health Authority, according to a press release.
The homes will include:
- a private bedroom, shared bathroom and common living space;
- regulated assisted-living services that focus on medication and symptom management as well as psychosocial rehabilitation;
- life-skill building;
- three nutritious meals per day and snacks;
- support services according to individual need; and
- on-site staff 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The homes, about two blocks away from Edmonds Community Centre and other amenities, also include a 24-hour emergency response system and mechanical heating and cooling.
The funding breakdown is:
- about $4 million from BC Housing, through the Shovel Ready Housing Program
- $1.4 million from the federal government, through Reaching Home: Canada’s Homelessness Strategy
- $2.9 million from the Progressive Housing Society in combined land and cash equity
Funding from Fraser Health will help operate the site as well.
Jaye Treit, executive director of Progressive Housing Society, said the non-profit is "thrilled" to announce the groundbreaking of Holly House.
"We are excited about the addition of new affordable housing units as they enable us to better serve our community’s need for accessible housing options," Treit said in the release.
"These new units represent our unwavering commitment to create inclusive and supportive environments for all residents. With each new unit, we take a step closer to ensuring that people in our community have a place to call home."
Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon said connecting people to shelter is just a first step in breaking the cycle of homelessness.
"These homes will provide vulnerable seniors with the support and stability they need to get back on their feet as we work to deliver more affordable housing solutions that will reduce and prevent homelessness in communities across the province," he said in the release.
"By equipping organizations like Progressive Housing Society, our government helps support important grassroots networks," said Terry Beech, MP for Burnaby North-Seymour and federal Minister of Citizens’ Services.
