A $500,000 ongoing, annual funding commitment from the Province will ensure the Pidcock House Emergency Shelter in Courtenay continues to provide 24/7 support to people who are homeless.
The shelter, managed by The Salvation Army, began 24/7 operations in 2011 after the City of Courtenay amended restrictions on operating hours.
Since then, the Province has provided short-term funding for the extended operations.
The shelter provides 14 beds for people who are homeless, as well as showers, laundry, meals and access to skills training and recovery services.
"Pidcock House shelter is a critical piece of the housing continuum, providing shelter and support for individuals in need in our community," reacted Don McRae, MLA for Comox Valley and Minister of Social Development and
Social Innovation.
"I'm proud that our government is able to commit funding for this important service for the Comox Valley," McRae continued.
"Emergency shelters throughout British Columbia provide a vital service to homeless individuals," stated
Rich Coleman, Minister of Natural Gas Development and Minister Responsible for Housing. "The Province supports The Salvation Army's tireless
work across B.C. to help provide people with a safe, warm and supportive place to stay."
"The Salvation Army is one of B.C.'s largest providers of social services and supports to people in need," added Lieut.-Col. Larry Martin, divisional commander, Salvation Army British
Columbia Division.
"We are very thankful to the B.C. government for supporting us in our work. It is only with many partners collaborating that we are truly able to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals in our communities."
Quick Facts:
• Since 2001, the B.C. government has invested $3.6 billion to provide affordable housing for low income individuals, seniors and families. This year, more than 98,000 B.C. households will benefit from provincial social housing programs and services.
• Last year, the B.C. government invested nearly $3.4 million to support subsidized housing and rent supplements for close to 680 households in
Courtenay. This includes providing support for nearly 390 senior households and over 230 family households.
To learn more about BC Housing, visit www.bchousing.org. To learn more about The Salvation Army, visit www.salvationarmy.ca.
— BC Housing