Vancouver’s mayor broke ground to start the eighth and largest development in the province’s homelessness housing initiative Monday.
Following a traditional Coast Salish blessing, Mayor Gregor Robertson, whose 2008 election platform included ending homelessness in Vancouver, thanked partners and highlighted the economic benefits of the housing project.
“Anyone we help off the street … is tens of thousands of dollars saved out of a system that is not an effective or appropriate way to help people on the street,” said Robertson.
The project, funded by the province, the Katherine Sanford Housing Society, Raincity Housing, Vancouver Coastal Health and the Streetohome Foundation, will see 147 studio and one-bedroom units built at 215 W. 2nd Ave.
According to housing minister Rich Coleman, the project will total just more than $38 million but he hopes it will finish under budget, allowing funds to channel towards other housing projects.
Streetohome Foundation president Dick Vollet spoke on the dedication of the project’s partnerships.
“It is more than just the money. … It’s more about the relationships and I think that’s really key,” said the CEO. “Writing a cheque is one thing but the relationships of seeing this through to completion is really what makes this town.”
