Lyonel Doherty, Times-Chronicle
The “serious housing crisis” in the South Okanagan has prompted two agencies to join forces to address the problem.
Desert Sun Counselling and SOWINS (South Okanagan Women in Need Society) have identified a major need for transitional and second stage housing for their clients.
A presentation to Oliver town council indicates that core housing needs have made independence and transitioning into the community extremely challenging for women and children.
In fact, research shows that lack of safe and affordable housing often leaves no option but to return to situations of violence (Statistics Canada 2019).
“When we fail to prevent or end housing need for women, we ensure repeated cycles of violence and housing precarity,” said Desert Sun and SOWINS in their presentation.
They add that housing instability and violence creates conditions for intergenerational homelessness.
Both agencies say this housing project will improve educational outcomes for vulnerable children and decrease abuse.
Desert Sun and SOWINS are hoping that BC Housing will join the collaboration and help fund the project.
Both agencies are asking Oliver town council to support the endeavor by offering land to build at least 20 units for single women and those with children.
It was noted that some land on Station Street might be made available.
Town council is currently considering the proposal as outlined.
Councillor Aimee Grice, an advocate for affordable housing, said it is horrifying that women fleeing from abuse can be faced with the impossible decision to return to their abuser when unable to find an alternative.
“I would personally like to see council support this project and am interested to hear what my colleagues have to say.”
Grice said council (in the Town’s strategic plan) previously committed to supporting affordable housing and is “willing to make a land contribution to efforts made by local societies/BC Housing willing to fund the construction.”
