Six new homes are now available for low- to middle-income Indigenous people living in Prince George.
An apartment complex has been bought in the South Fort George area for $840,000 between the federal and B.C. governments in efforts to provide safe, healthy and affordable housing options for struggling residents and families.
The Aboriginal Housing Society of Prince George (AHSPG) is taking over full ownership and operations of the Oak Street complex, ceded on Lheidli T’enneh traditional territory, however, those currently living there now will not be affected as monthly rents will be carried over.
“We are excited to be able to keep these homes on the market,” said AHSPG Executive Director Christos Vardacostas in a news release, who’s organization serves roughly 500 people in the community.
“Having a home is fundamental, and this is a great opportunity for us to work with the Province to make sure these spaces stay affordable and available.”
The apartment includes four two-bedroom units and two one-bedroom units with renovations coming soon as a result of the purchase, set to increase its lifespan.
“By helping to purchase this building, we are protecting these affordable homes for people in Prince George,” said B.C. Municipal Affairs and Housing Minister Selina Robinson in the same statement, adding affordable housing is a ‘shared priority’ among the NDP and Green parties, part of the province’s Confidence and Supply Agreement.
“Through this partnership with the Aboriginal Housing Society of Prince George, we’re keeping rents for these homes affordable for the residents and ensuring that needed upgrades are made to the building.”
The six-unit complex is located at 2541 Oak St.
According to the Housing Ministry, these homes are six of 22,000 that are complete, under construction or in development stages across B.C., including almost 220 in Prince George.
