North Shore Inn in Nelson has been bought by BC Housing. (Facebook photo)

By Pete McIntyre

$3.9 million

Province buys motel in Nelson to house homeless

Mar 31, 2022 | 9:50 AM

The B.C. government has announced the purchase of the North Shore Inn in Nelson to provide 30 homes with supports for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

The province, through BC Housing, is providing $3.9 million to buy and renovate the former motel.

BC Housing will also fund an annual operating subsidy of approximately $1 million.

“We know that helping vulnerable people stay connected to supportive housing is essential,” said Brittny Anderson, MLA for Nelson-Creston. “With this purchase, people will be able to keep a roof over their head and get back on their feet in the community they call home. I want to thank everyone who helped make this happen, especially Jenny Robinson and the whole Nelson CARES team.”

Located at 687 Highway 3A, the 30-unit motel has been leased by BC Housing since April 2020 as temporary supportive housing for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness during the COVID-19 pandemic. By purchasing the property, BC Housing is ensuring that residents will have a stable, safe place to spend the night.

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Nelson CARES Society will continue to manage the building and provide supports to residents, including a daily meal program, life-skills training, employment assistance and other services. Residents will have access to on-site staff 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

“We are pleased that BC Housing and the Province are taking this important step to secure safe, stable and affordable housing in Nelson,” said Ron Little, board chair, Nelson CARES Society. “We are happy to continue as a partner on this site, living our mandate to support the most vulnerable members of our community.”