People experiencing homelessness in Penticton may soon have another shelter option.
The Government of BC is planning to build a tiny home site at 616 Okanagan Ave. E. for as many as 50 new temporary tiny homes for members of the city’s homeless population.
Housing Minister Christine Boyle says homelessness and encampments are “a complex challenge.”
"We're working on every front to help people leave encampments and find a safe place to stay where they can access the support they need," she explained.
"We know there's an urgent need for temporary housing in Penticton, and that's why we're working with the city, snpink'tn Indian Band and local partners to provide these spaces and supports as quickly as possible.
The City of Penticton will consider a temporary-use permit for the site during its Nov. 4 meeting, which will determine if the plan moves forward or not.
If the idea receives municipal approval, the homes will be constructed on the site and offered to people experiencing homelessness in the community.
The site will be managed by an experienced non-profit organization, selected by BC Housing, and offer wraparound supports to help tiny home residents find their way to permanent housing.
Penticton mayor Julius Bloomfield says the initiative marks a “significant step forward” in addressing the impacts of the community’s homeless encampment.
"It's the result of months of coordinated work between the city, the Province, BC Housing, snpink'tn Indian Band and our local partners,” he noted. “This is about restoring safety and dignity, both for those sheltering outdoors and for the broader community."
If approved, Penticton won’t be the only Okanagan city to have this kind of tiny home site for the homeless, as there have been three constructed in Kelowna over the past two years.
