The B.C. government has secured more housing units for homeless people in the province’s capital city, including Victoria’s tent city.
The province has purchased the former Central Care Home at 844 Johnson St. for $11.2 million.
It will be converted into long-term supportive housing and will offer an additional 140 units.
"Conditions at the courthouse lawn are unsafe and the fire hazard danger is growing," Rich Coleman, the minister of housing, said. "The purchase of the Central Care Home will add enough spaces to ensure these individuals are moved into safe housing that includes on-site support staff."
The building was previously owned by the Baptist Housing Society and operated as a senior care home until 2014.
Some of the upgrades include replacing flooring throughout the building, painting, pest-control proofing and security upgrades.
The ministry said the renovations will begin immediately and it’s expected to be move-in ready in late July.
"We'd like to thank the province for listening to the input of many Victorians who have suggested purchasing this vacant building and using it for much-needed housing. We look forward to seeing it open and people housed," Victoria's mayor, Lisa Helps, said.
Portland Hotel Society Community Services will operate the facility and with the help of Island Health will provide outreach and support services to clients.
The province has housed more than 190 people from the encampment since October 2015. Twenty two people have also transitioned into permanent housing.
