In a fantastic example of service to the community, the British Columbia government purchased a hotel to provide accommodation to the homeless, who would otherwise be vulnerable to the coronavirus pandemic.
The B.C government bought the Comfort Inn Hotel near downtown Victoria, located at 3020 Blanshard St., to provide around 65 temporary rooms for the homeless living currently at shelter camps in Topaz Park and on Pandora Avenue. Over 200 people were moved to these indoor shelters between 25th April and 13th May 2020.
The hotel was purchased by the provincial government for $18.5 million and could be converted into an affordable housing site subsequently.
The inhabitants will have access to storage spaces for personal belongings, food, healthcare services, and addiction treatments.
“Often people experiencing homelessness are not able to access the support and services they need,” said Shane Simpson, Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction, in an announcement recently.
“The purchase of the Comfort Inn, combined with medical and social supports, will help people make the transition from the street to permanent housing.”
The hotel will be managed and operated by Our Place Society, a local organization that offers aid to the homeless, along with B. C Housing.
Apart from this, the province has also leased hotels in Vancouver and Victoria to provide shelter to the less priviledged during the pandemic.
Isn’t this a fantastic example of how the government is helping people live with dignity? What do you think? Do let us know your views in the comments section below.
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