$7.3M INVESTMENT TO CREATE 47 JOBS IN CAMPBELL RIVER

CAMPBELL RIVER – The Province is investing $7.3 million in a 24-unit supportive housing development within the City of Campbell River, helping to create 47 new jobs, announced Housing and Social Development Minister Rich Coleman.

“This new housing development will provide housing for adults with developmental disabilities and will also provide employment opportunities during and after construction,” said Coleman. “This development will be an important asset to the community for many years to come.”

Construction of the development is scheduled to begin in August 2009. The development is part of an agreement between the Province and the City of Campbell River signed in October 2008. The City will exempt the site from property taxes as long as it continues to provide housing and services for people who would otherwise be at risk of homelessness.

“This development will allow adults with disabilities the opportunity to stay in their community close to family and friends,” said Charlie Cornfield, mayor of Campbell River. “I look forward to seeing the positive effects of this supportive housing development.”

The Campbell River and District Association for Community Living will manage and operate the housing. Located at 280 Nikola Road, this society-owned site is appropriately zoned and currently occupied by an outdated group home. Community Living BC provides mortgage and operational funding for the existing group home and will continue this funding for the new development.

“Our organization’s purpose is to advocate and provide services for people with special needs and their families who live in the Campbell River area,” said Greg Hill, executive director of CRDACL. “This partnership with the Province and city will allow us to expand our services for this community.”

This project is part of an overall $14-billion capital infrastructure program supported by the Province that will create up to 88,000 jobs and help build vital public infrastructure in every region of B.C.

Through Housing Matters BC, Budget 2009 increased the amount the Province invests in affordable housing and shelters to more than $469 million a year, more than four times as much as in 2001.

‘Breaking the Cycle of Homelessness’ is a website providing a comprehensive and detailed look at provincial programs and services to address homelessness. Visit www.bchousing.org/breakingthecycle for more information

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Media contacts:
Rhonda Nguyen
BC Housing
604 439 4740
604 374 8301