Housing First project to help solve homelessness in Kelowna

The issue of homelessness will be at the forefront of discussion in Kelowna as a Housing First pilot project comes to the community.

The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), Kelowna Branch, through funding from the federal Homelessness Partnering Strategy and the Interior Health Authority, have launched a Housing First pilot project in the community.

The problem of homelessness is complex and requires complex solutions, including affordability of housing. The other most commonly cited reasons for housing vulnerability include mental health issues, problematic substance use, physical health issues and disabilities, trauma, and family conflict.

There are communities across North America that have implemented strategies that have effectively reduced, or even ended homelessness. One of these strategies is Housing First, which is focused on housing the most vulnerable and providing them with appropriate supports.

To help inform the community and clear up conflicting information about the pilot project and philosophy, the CMHA will host a free public event on Jun 3 from 8:30 until 11:30 a.m. at the Ramada Hotel and Conference Centre. t will feature renowned guest speaker and Housing First pioneer Dr Sam Tsemberis of Pathways to Housing in New York City.

“We want to build on recent momentum created from discussions co-hosted by the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce and the Urban Development Institute for business leaders, Developers and decision makers where we learned about the connection between the lack of affordable rental housing and homelessness and were introduced to the Housing First model,” said Shelagh Turner, Executive Director of CMHA Kelowna. “The Housing First model is a proven, evidence-based strategy. Having the community on the same page of understanding is a key piece in addressing homelessness.”

Housing First is an approach that centres on providing homeless people with housing quickly and then providing services as needed. What differentiates a Housing First approach from other strategies is that there is an immediate and primary focus on helping individuals and families quickly access and sustain permanent housing.

Anyone interested in learning more about this project is welcome to attend, including landlords and property managers. As space is limited, CMHA Kelowna is requesting that individuals register in advance online at www.cmhakelowna.org.