Penticton's latest supportive housing program set to open this summer

A new supportive housing program run by two Penticton organizations is slated to open soon, according to the agenda of city council’s Committee of the Whole meeting.

ASK Wellness Society and Oonakane Friendship Centre, in partnership with BC Housing, are preparing to open Snpaʔx̌təntn, also known as Healing House, this summer.

The building is located at 3240 Skaha Lake Road and will have 52 studio apartments and two one-bedrooms. Each unit has its own bathroom and kitchenette, as well as basic furnishings.

ASK Wellness says there will be various programs and supports provided on-site 24 hours per day 365 days per year to support participants’ recovery.

This will include housing support workers, peer recovery support coaches, employment rehabilitation workers, a drug & alcohol counsellor, and a cultural support worker.

Bob Hughes with ASK Wellness and Shauna Fox with the Oonakane Friendship Centre will be presenting to council on Tuesday.

Their report says this supportive housing program will focus on a “low barrier approach,” something different from other programs across the province.

“This building is recovery focused for people who are further along in their recovery journey and want to live in an environment free from alcohol and substance use, while also offering cultural supports,” states a report headed to council on Tuesday.

“Program participants will be committed to living in a manner that supports the wellbeing of their community, their own recovery, and the recovery of their fellow program participants.”

Staff will help people connection to education, employment and volunteer opportunities that are best suited to each individual.

People are expected to begin moving in this June.

Penticton City Council will hear more on this housing program on April 18 at 1 pm.