For more than 30 years, the Living Positive Resource Centre has served individuals in the Central Okanagan, but its days are now numbered after the organization announced it will close at the end of June.
According to a note posted to its door last week, the centre will close for good on June 28th.
“We are in a time of transition, as we’ve just learned LPRC will cease to be an organization as of June 28th. We love our community and are trying to find a way to keep the doors open. Check here for updates,” reads the note.
Located on Lawrence Avenue, the LPRC started as an HIV/AIDS service organization in 1992, later expanding its programs and helping individuals with concerns related to housing, income, nutrition, healthcare, substance use and mental wellness, the LPRC’s website states.
“We understand the significant impact of this closure on our community. Our primary focus during this transition is to ensure that our clients continue to receive the support they need,” reads the LPRC’s website.
“We are working closely with local services to facilitate a smooth transition for harm reduction and client support services. We will provide guidance to help our clients navigate these changes.”
The organization also posted a closure notice on its Facebook account, sharing numerous resources and organizations individuals can go to and use to fill the gap created by the closure of the LPRC.
“It’s really sad to see (the) Living Positive Resource Centre close down,” said Elana Wood, a former staff member.
“They provided so many meaningful resources to the community and the staff genuinely cared about each person who visited, aiming to make a positive impact on their lives – I really enjoyed providing drug-checking services there last summer.”
“We want to express our deep gratitude to all our staff, volunteers, partners and supporters who have been with us throughout this journey. Your support has made an immense difference in the lives of many,” added the website.
NowMedia has contacted the organization for further details on the reason for the closure.
Less than a week ago, HOPE Outreach Okanagan announced on social media that it would cease operations due to financial sustainability.
The local organization ended most of its programs this past Friday after 16 years of service in the Okanagan and will pass the torch to other community agencies.
“The board has spent more than 12 months trying to ensure HOPE Outreach could continue, unfortunately, our financial sustainability has led us to this situation,” reads the post.”
The organization worked with women in Kelowna and Vernon who were experiencing homelessness, addiction or at risk of being exploited by others and entering sex work.
