New complex care housing for Kelowna

Kelowna’s mayor says new funding to help people with complex care needs in the Central Okanagan is a significant step in the right direction.

Colin Basran was commenting on provincial funding for up to 20 complex care spaces in Kelowna to connect people with the services they need, in new homes, in an effort to break the cycle of eviction and homelessness.

“This announcement is a milestone for community health and safety in Kelowna, as we continue to see impacts related to mental health and problematic substance use,” said Basran. “This model provides a health-centred approach to support those most vulnerable in our community, who will no longer need to shelter outside or rely as heavily on crisis and emergency services.”

The new spaces are expected to open this winter at multiple sites in the community. The housing and health-care supports will be provided by Interior Health professional staff and a contracted service provider

Interior Health is working with community partners and the city to confirm locations and service providers.

“There are residents in Kelowna who are left to shelter outside, on the street because there’s no other place for them to go,” said Stephanie Gauthier, Central Okanagan Journey Home Society Executive Director. “We have a grave need for more housing locally, and a backlog of need for supportive housing, particularly for those with the most complex needs. These new homes for up to 20 people with complex needs won’t solve homelessness in our community but it’s a big step in that direction.”

The complex care model provides supportive housing with an emphasis on intensive clinical health supports available 24/7.