A former Kamloops motel will soon become housing for the homeless.
The Province announced today that it has purchased the old Lamplighter Motel in Kamloops to ensure people at risk of homelessness in the community have a place to live.
The purchase was made through BC Housing, who has been leasing the building since October 2021 as temporary supportive housing for the homeless during the COVID-19 pandemic.
ASK Wellness Society has managed the site in that time and will continue to do so.
"With this purchase, people will get to stay in the homes they've been accustomed to over the past couple of years, ensuring they have a permanent, supportive home to live in close to friends and family," said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing.
"Through our permanent housing plan, our government is making temporary homes created in response to the COVID-19 pandemic permanent so that vulnerable people have a safe and stable foundation to build a better life."
The one-storey building has 31 units, each with its own washroom. The building also has a reception area and an additional two-bedroom manager’s suite.
There will be staff on site 24 hours a day, seven days a week to provide residents with support services that include daily meals, life-skills training, vocational supports and health and wellness services.
"A tapestry of supportive housing in Kamloops will ensure that people have the right supports and environment to improve their lives," said Bob Hughes, chief executive officer of ASK Wellness Society.
"While the Lamplighter program has historically supported individuals during environmental crisis situations, the operating model for this project has developed and grown in order to complement the existing housing models in the community.”
Hughes added that the vision for the building is to provide culturally-appropriate services to those who are prepared to embrace prioritizing their health, employment and educational advancement.
