Kamloops - 142 Tranquille Road
BC Housing is planning to open a year-round shelter with up to 44 beds at 142 Tranquille Road, formerly Kamloops Butler Auto & RV. This shelter is a response to the urgent need to support people who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness in Kamloops.
This project funded through the Province’s Homeless Encampment Action Response Temporary Housing (HEARTH) program.
BC Housing will lease the site from the owner. The site requires a Temporary Use Permit (TUP). BC Housing will follow the municipal processes required.
This site requires some renovations and upgrades before opening. These include installing fencing, gates and security cameras for the safety of guests and staff as well as the surrounding community. We also plan to add storage and adjust the interior layout. If the TUP is approved, we currently expect this shelter to open in late December 2024.
This shelter plays a role in supporting the vision of the Kamloops Access Hub Leadership Group. Learn more about the Kamloops Access Hub Leadership Group.
The need in Kamloops
There is an urgent need for shelter in Kamloops and specifically on the North Shore. A 2023 Point in Time count identified at least 312 people experiencing homelessness in Kamloops. The actual number is likely higher, as the count does not include people who are in hospital, couch surfing or living in vehicles and may also need shelter. After a person can access a warm bed, washrooms and meals, they are in a much better position to improve their housing situation and well-being.
People staying in shelters can include seniors, people with disabilities, people who have experienced trauma or poverty, people with health concerns and anyone struggling with the high cost of housing. Guests would be adults (19+) of all genders.
About the shelter
This shelter will be open 24/7, year-round. Supports and services will include:
- 3 staff onsite, 24/7
- 3 meals per day
- washroom and shower facilities
- storage for personal belongings
- access to cultural programming
- onsite outreach support services
- goal planning and life skills training
- referrals to support groups
- twice a week, access to medical services through ASK Wellness Society’s Mobile Health Clinic
- connection to community services and social assistance
These supports and services are for shelter guests only. There will be no drop-in services at this site.
Operator
BC Housing selected ASK Wellness Society through a fair and open process to operate the shelter and provide services to guests. ASK Wellness Society is a local charitable non-profit organization with a long history of delivering effective outreach, housing, health and employment services in the region. Learn more about ASK Wellness Society by visiting askwellness.ca.
Community engagement
ASK Wellness Society is committed to being a good neighbour. BC Housing, ASK Wellness Society and the Kamloops Access Hub Leadership Group will answer neighbour questions and address any concerns quickly and collaboratively.
We will share a direct phone number for the shelter with neighbours when it is available. Community members can also email communityrelations@bchousing.org at any time with questions about the project.
Community open house
BC Housing, ASK Wellness Society and the Kamloops Access Hub Leadership Group welcome neighbours to an in-person, community open house on November 21, 2024.
Drop in to learn more about the shelter plans, get to know the operator, and ask questions or find out how to get involved in supporting the shelter project.
Date: Thursday, November 21, 2024
Time: 5:00 – 7:00 pm
Location: McArthur Island Sport and Event Centre – Sports Centre Lounge, 1665 Island Parkway
Register: Please RSVP by visiting the event page at kamloops-north-shore-shelter.eventbrite.ca
Drop-in format; all are welcome. Registration is appreciated to help with planning.