Massive investment in BC housing supply announced

New housing complex provides more than 100 low-cost units

Massive investment in BC housing supply announced

Federal and provincial investments of $5 million and $25 million, respectively, have been announced for a new multi-use housing building in Surrey, British Columbia.

The investment in the new six-storey Foxglove complex, situated at 9810 Foxglove Drive, also came with approximately $3.2 million in annual operating funding for the project. The building provides 66 supportive homes and 30 permanent shelter spaces for people at risk of or experiencing homelessness, along with 34 complex-care beds for vulnerable individuals requiring support.

The building will be operated by RainCity Housing and Support Society.

“Complex care clients will have access to enhanced supports on-site, including nurses, peer workers, social workers, and other health-care professionals, along with access to treatment and other specialized services,” said Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation.

Read more: Analysis: BC housing at the mercy of inter-provincial migration

The federal funding for this project comes from the first tranche of a $75 million memorandum of understanding with the government of British Columbia. The agreement aims to help build 1,500 units of affordable housing across the province.

“The opening of this building is the next step in providing a real solution to an issue that has gone on for far too long in BC. We’re working to make sure the housing system works better for people with serious mental-health and addiction issues so they aren’t left behind in a cycle of shelters, evictions, emergency rooms and even jail cells,” said David Eby, Attorney General and Minister Responsible for Housing. “This building, and others like it opening across the province, will help people with complex challenges get the care they need, when and where they need it.”