The Oliver Women’s Institute is calling on the Town to establish a trust fund for people in need of affordable housing.

Institute president Helen Overnes tried to convince council last week to take action, but she didn’t receive a commitment.

She noted that council still hasn’t acted on a 2009 affordable housing strategy in Oliver and Osoyoos.

“Sometimes I wonder if it’s growing dust on the shelf because I haven’t heard anything about it.”

Overnes said 100 affordable housing units are needed in Oliver for single parents, young couples, the disabled and “empty nesters” under 55.

She asked if council would consider setting up a trust fund for affordable rental housing that the community could donate to with a receipt for income tax.

“At present we have wineries making a good livelihood and they are asking what can we do to give back to the community.”

Overnes said matching grants could be available, and the units could be built by the community, which has been successful before.

She noted the Women’s Institute has asked the BC government to return the transfer tax on all properties sold in this area and use it towards a trust fund for affordable housing. But this was turned down, she stated.

“This town would be a much happier place for all to live with housing for all people. This need will not go away and we will lose people who could look after our community needs.”

Overnes said about 200 people rely on the Oliver Food Bank every week. She also noted that social assistance gives $350 a month for rent, but there’s “nothing under $500 for rent.”

Overnes said people are being pushed deeper into depression and anger, and parents must have a roof over their heads in order to keep their children. She added that children are going hungry and acting out in school and the community.

“They want to be heard,” Overnes said.

The women’s advocate pointed out that nobody will come forward until the Town acts on a strategy.

Mayor Ron Hovanes said the Town would welcome any form of social housing commitment from the private sector.

“We don’t have huge coffers to build our own social housing.”

But the mayor noted that Oliver does have an inventory of social housing via the Kiwanis Club and its low-cost housing units.

By Lyonel Doherty