More details have been released from the province about the proposed complex care housing project at 1850 Boxwood Rd.
The project plans were presented to a city design advisory panel last month, and this month, the B.C. Ministry of Health offered more information about the project, noting that the timeline and costs are contingent on successful re-zoning and other approvals.
The 20-unit project is proposed for hard-to-house people with significant health challenges, including mental health issues, addictions, and brain injuries.
At the Boxwood Road housing, each studio-style unit will have its own bathroom and kitchenette. Residents will also have access to communal dining and amenity areas, as well as spaces to receive on-site health services. Teams of professionals will work with residents to provide the supports needed to maintain stable housing and improve their quality of life.
“Complex care housing is an important component of the continuum of mental-health and substance-use care provided by Island Health clinical teams to individuals who are ready for services and supports and to begin a path towards wellness,” said Leah Hollins, Island Health board chairperson, in the release. “Stable housing is a vital part of health and enables our health-care teams to support people in the comfort, safety and security of their homes.”
A non-profit operator will manage the building and provide support services, while Island Health will provide health services. Staff will be on site 24/7.
In the release, Josie Osborne, B.C. minister of health, said that the lack of stable housing is worsening the struggles of those with complex health challenges.
“As a result, people can find themselves stuck in a cycle of evictions, shelters, encampments and even emergency departments," she said. "The social and health supports and stable homes that complex-care housing provides can help people establish stability, build connections and break the cycle of homelessness.”
