Final work is being completed on BC Housing’s long-term, community shelter in Salmon Arm.
With temperatures dipping below zero and snow on the ground, the Observer contacted BC Housing for an update on the 25-bed modular shelter being set up on city-owned property at 341 and 361 Fraser Ave. NW.
In a Nov. 2 email, BC Housing said work is currently advancing on schedule, and the modular units are on-site.
“Final work is underway to ready the shelter for occupancy, anticipated before the end of the year,” said BC Housing. “BC Housing staff, the city, as well as our contractors and other partners, are all working quickly to bring these much-needed shelter spaces to the community.”
The year-round shelter will also provide daily meals, supports and connections to services. Storage and other amenities will be available.
Canadian Mental Health Association Shuswap-Revelstoke will be operating the shelter when it opens. It will be staffed 24/7 and CHMA will provide vital services to shelter guests, as well as security and property maintenance.
“CMHA is committed to being a good neighbour,” said BC Housing, adding CMHA is an experienced and trusted housing provider, currently operating over 300 affordable and supportive housing units in the local area.
BC Housing said it will share more information with the community as operations are finalized and before the shelter opens.
Read more: City increases contribution towards Salmon Arm long-term shelter
Read more: Compassion drives council’s support of rezoning for proposed Salmon Arm shelter
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