VIDEO: Homelessness remains a big problem despite all the new projects in Kelowna

With winter looming, the problem of homelessness in Kelowna remains a work in progress.

The city is moving its overnight shelter location, but that's not being described as any kind of solution.

What is considered a step forward is new the 38 unit Ellis Place supportive housing project which is slated to open in the weeks ahead.

Overnight sheltering will now be allowed at a lot on Baille Avenue. It's a patch of gravel behind the BC Tree Fruits Building in Kelowna's north end.

For dozens of people, it will be the place they spend some cold nights this winter.

The numbers are ever-changing," said the city's Director of Community Safety, Darren Caul. "Based on what we have at Recreation Avenue right now, the numbers fluctuate between 15 and 35."

Caul explained the patch of ground has to be made available because the city can't legally tell people there's nowhere for them to go.

"The City has a legal obligation to designate a public space for people to shelter overnight," he said.

The newest supportive housing project in Kelowna, Ellis Place is set to open in the weeks ahead.

Since 2017, 231 units of housing have been created to address the problem, but on the streets, there seems to be as many people needing housing as ever.

"Somehow it seems people either don't want to be housed or are having problems stabilizing," said Kelowna RCMP Sgt. Greg Woodcox.

He works with people on the street every day and he's as busy now as ever.

"It's a drug and mental health crisis right?" he said. "That's the reality of the situation, and until that changes, I don't think anything will change."