Whereas adult supportive housing funded by BC Housing provides accommodation for people with a history of severe trauma, often resulting in difficult behaviours that can have significant impact on surrounding neighbourhoods and requiring skilled caregivers to manage; And whereas government funding for BC Housing does not include adequate levels to either provide neighbourhood outreach services or assure skilled staff and minimal turnover: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM call on the provincial government to increase funding levels to BC Housing in order to mandate and assure that community outreach services and the stability of an adequately skilled staff are components of supportive housing developments that are vital in local communities.
Ministry of Attorney General and Minister Responsible for Housing BC Housing Management Commission BC Housing is a crown agency under the Ministry of Attorney General and Minister Responsible for Housing. BC Housing implements a range of programs that deliver on provincial investments for the creation and management of supportive housing for people, including seniors, youth, people with disabilities, Indigenous peoples, and women and children fleeing violence. The Ministry acknowledges that support services are an integral component of supportive housing and contribute to the success for residents and the integration of supportive housing into the community. That is why supportive housing sites are staffed 247 and offer on-site supports, including access to addiction and mental health referrals and other social supports. Additionally, there is increased collaboration between BC Housing and health authorities to create a regular health care presence in buildings to assist with health needs such as primary care. As with all new supportive housing buildings, it takes some time for residents to settle into the building and new environment, however based on BC Housings experience and a recent study, after a few months residents stabilize, and public disturbances decrease dramatically. BC Housing is committed to being a good neighbour and reaches out to local governments, stakeholders, neighbours, and local businesses to engage around housing projects and respective community roles. In addition, BC Housing establishes Community Advisory Committees for some supportive housing sites in order to be responsive to neighbours and the community. Community Advisory Committees ensure supportive housing integrates well into neighbourhoods, and they have been effective at helping communities work together to address concerns and maintain positive connections between neighbours. While these efforts have helped many people, the Ministry and BC Housing understand there are lessons to be learned in each community that can be incorporated into future successes. Working with partners, including local governments and communities, the Province remains committed to providing long-term housing that creates positive impacts for everyone involved.