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October 22, 2018 - 4:10 PM
VERNON - More people experiencing homelessness in Vernon can find a place to stay this winter as B.C. Housing and the city open new short-term shelter beds.
Approximately 40 short-term beds are scheduled to open in November, according to a B.C. Government media release. The shelter is expected to open at 2804 33 Street, next to the Gateway shelter.
Turning Points Collaborative, who operates the Gateway shelter, will manage the new project called Compass, which will provide residents with 24/7 support.
People wanting to stay at Compass will go through an assessment process, the province says. They will have access to on-site supports, including life-skills training and employment assistance, in addition to connection and referral to community services and support groups to help them achieve and maintain housing stability.
The beds at Compass are an interim measure until spring 2019, when a new 52-unit permanent supportive housing project is expected to open.
Construction is also nearing completion for 46 new shelter beds at 2307 43 Street. This project is expected to open in December 2018.
In October 2017, 153 people in the City of Vernon self-identified as homeless, the province says. The Gateway shelter has been operating over capacity all year and cannot increase services.
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