WHEREAS ample and varied housing stock is an essential part of a healthy and prosperous community; AND WHEREAS housing for the hard-to-house and transitional housing is scarce in many rural and remote communities in British Columbia: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM urge the provincial government to provide ongoing operational funding for support services for the hard-to-house and transitional housing in British Columbia.
Ministry of Energy, Mines and Natural Gas and Minister Responsible for Housing The Province recognizes that housing for the hard-to-house and transitional housing is a significant concern in many rural and remote communities in British Columbia. The Province, through the British Columbia Housing Management Commission, subsidizes units throughout the province for individuals who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Outreach workers in 40 communities connect people with permanent housing and a range of services through the Homeless Outreach and Aboriginal Outreach programs. The Province, through BC Housing, has created 152 units of supportive housing for the hard-to-house in rural and remote communities since April 2009. In addition, services funded by the Province through community-based contractors in 77 communities provide women and their dependent children who are fleeing violence with housing, food, crisis intervention, and referrals. By working with local organizations to identify new housing and service needs, the Province will continue to provide a variety of housing options.