People in Nanaimo experiencing homelessness will soon receive support to help turn their lives around.
The BC Government, BC Housing, and the City of Nanaimo identified city-owned land at 1030 Old Victoria Road for the new Nanaimo navigation centre.
The site would be leased by the city to BC Housing after city council approves it and would provide services for people undergoing long-term homelessness that require more support than a normal shelter can offer.
MLA for Nanaimo Sheila Malcomson said the centre will allow people to get the mental health and addiction treatment they need.
“With the new navigation centre, people can access housing and individualized care that meet their needs, benefiting not only the most vulnerable, but also the community as a whole.”
The modular building will have approximately 60 private units each coming with a locking door, bed, and a place to store personal belongings.
Communal washrooms, a commercial kitchen, laundry/utility room, amenity room, and office space are also included.
Vancouver Island Mental Health Society will operate the centre and have 24/7 support for health services, services focused on housing stabilization, overdose prevention programs and a daily meal program.
