Kelowna, BC – The city of Kelowna has taken a significant step towards addressing the issue of homelessness and supporting vulnerable women in the community. As of today, 44 new shelter spaces for women have officially opened in Kelowna.
The new shelter spaces, located at the former Good Night Inn on Highway 97, were made possible through a partnership between the City of Kelowna, BC Housing, and the Kelowna Women’s Shelter. The project was funded by the provincial government’s Rapid Response to Homelessness program, which aims to quickly provide shelter and support for those in need.
According to the Kelowna Women’s Shelter, the new spaces will provide a safe and supportive environment for women experiencing homelessness or fleeing from domestic violence. The shelter will also offer a range of services, including meals, laundry facilities, and access to support workers.
Mayor Colin Basran expressed his gratitude towards all those involved in making this project a reality. He stated, “This is a significant step towards addressing the issue of homelessness in our community, and we are proud to be a part of it. These new shelter spaces will provide a safe haven for women in need and help them get back on their feet.”
The need for more shelter spaces for women in Kelowna has been a pressing issue for years. In 2020, the Kelowna Women’s Shelter had to turn away over 1,000 women due to lack of space. With the addition of these 44 new spaces, it is hoped that more women will be able to access the support and resources they need.
The opening of these new shelter spaces is a significant step towards addressing homelessness and supporting vulnerable women in Kelowna. It is a testament to the power of collaboration and community efforts in creating positive change. The City of Kelowna and its partners are committed to continuing to work towards providing safe and supportive spaces for those in need.
