homelessness

Homelessness is not unique to Kelowna but is presenting as a dynamic and rapidly changing problem locally and across Canada. It poses a complex and pressing societal challenge, significantly impacting individuals and communities. While the City continues to advocate for the necessary health and housing supports from senior levels of government, we have assumed a progressively larger role in addressing the homelessness crisis and outdoor sheltering response in Kelowna.

Through the 2024 budget, Council committed to additional resources for the Social Development Department. The enhanced department will support and connect the local social serving sector and facilitate collective action among diverse leaders to enhance social wellness and respond to various complex challenges, including homelessness.

In October, the City signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Province, formalizing a commitment to work together to better support people who are unhoused, including those sheltering in encampments, and to help prevent encampments in the future. Through the MOU, the City committed to bring forward available land and expedite land-use decisions for new shelter and transitional housing projects.

The partnership has since resulted in the construction of 120 units of transitional housing, including 60 individual units and 60 modular housing units, which opened in 2024. The Province, through BC Housing, provided $9.3 million to construct two transitional housing sites from the new Homeless Encampment Action Response Temporary Housing (HEARTH) program. key actions and achievements

Located at 759 Crowley Avenue and 2740 Highway 97 North, the housing is staffed 24/7 and offers residents access to skills training and support navigating the housing system. The goal is to transition individuals from local shelters to more independent housing, freeing up shelter spaces for those in encampments and others facing homelessness.

The City has remained a leading and consistent advocate for enhanced care and support for B.C. residents who require complex care in conjunction with their housing needs. We continue to offer municipally owned land contributions to the Province for a new purpose-built complex care centre while working closely with Interior Health to address the need for more complex care beds in our city.

The health issues and struggles of individuals experiencing unsheltered homelessness, staying in shelters, or in precarious housing, impacts not only their individual health, but also community functioning and the wellness of all. While 2023 marked a major step forward in establishing more housing solutions, the City remains committed to building momentum as a leader in addressing homelessness locally.

Read the 2023 Annual Report to learn more.