Optimism Strong For Vernon Housing Support

The issue of housing needs for homeless and low income people in Vernon is far from going away.

The discussion always comes up at council as it did this week with the easing of the camping rules in Polson Park.

The John Howard Society has been leading the campaign for more affordable housing and health-related programs.

Co-Executive Director Kelly Fehr says the Society is always working on ideas.

“I can say that we have a very strong and productive relationship with both BC Housing and Interior Health. So, we’re continuing to have dialogue and look at how to expand programs , how to expand funding for programs.”

Fehr says he sees good things happening, but couldn’t comment on anything that might be unfolding.

“We need to remain optimistic. I have full faith that BC Housing is going to come to the table in Vernon and hopefully work on a couple of different projects with a couple of different organizations.”

He doesn’t think Vernon having a Liberal MLA in an NDP government will lessen the assistance.

“I do know that the different ministries, there hasn’t been a huge changeover in staff at this time. I do know that the different ministries, such as BC Housing, remain committed to our community and remain committed to engaging with the not-for-profits that support people in need.”

Last week’s budget update included money for construction of 1,700 new units of affordable rental housing province wide and 2.000 modular housing units for people who are homeless.