The provincial government is leasing a downtown motel to help get more homeless off the city's streets.
Knights Inn at 650 Dominion St. downtown, directly across from the new Four Seasons Pool, will provide 44 units of supportive housing for people living outside or in emergency shelters.
Residents are expected move into the motel in early November.
“We know there’s an urgent need for housing in Prince George, and our government will continue to build more affordable housing for everyone,” David Eby, the B.C. Attorney General and Minister Responsible for Housing, said in a press release issued Monday.
Prince George Native Friendship Centre will be the operator and will provide residents with support services, including daily meals and health and wellness support services. At least two staff members will be on site around the clock.
“The PGNFC is committed to providing a diverse range of services and supports through a trauma-informed and cultural approach, as inclusiveness, friendship and kinship are key to building strong relationships, understandings and safety,” said Barb Ward-Burkitt, PGNFC executive director.
The provincial government is leasing the motel through BC Housing for two years for about $1 million and will provide PGNFC about $1.5 million for operating costs.
People in need of housing are encouraged to connect with local outreach workers from the PGNFC, Association Advocating for Women and Community, and BC Housing.
BC Housing funds about 150 nightly shelter spaces in Prince George. In addition to the Knights Inn, 127 supportive homes are either under construction or in development in Prince George.
