Lift Community Services announced that it has received a funding commitment from the province, through BC Housing, that will allow the organization to keep the 20-bed emergency shelter on 4746 Joyce Avenue open 24 hours a day for another year.
“It has been Lift’s privilege to operate this shelter for the last year and a half, through a cold and wet winter, and a difficult global pandemic,” stated Lift executive director Stuart Clark in a media release. “Being able to help our clients find a warm place to sleep, get some food, or connect to health care and other services in the community, is some of the most meaningful work Lift has done as an organization.”
The release stated that the previous operating contract for the emergency shelter with BC Housing expired on April 30. BC Housing’s funding commitment will allow Lift to keep the emergency shelter open until March 31, 2024.
Clark stated that discussions continue with BC Housing to ensure sustainable funding for the qathet emergency shelter.
While results of qathet region’s 2023 homeless count won’t be available until later this year, Lift estimates that there are currently about 70 people living without homes or shelter in Powell River, many of whom visit the shelter regularly, the release stated.
“We’re gratified that BC Housing recognizes the growing homelessness crisis in qathet,” stated Clark, “and remains committed to working with local partners on solutions.”
