Operators selected for 120 tiny homes for the homeless in Kelowna

A pair of temporary housing projects for Kelowna's homeless population will be operated by two experienced organizations.

The John Howard Society, which operates the Cornerstone Emergency Shelter and a number of supportive housing sites in the city, will manage the 60 tiny homes on Crowly Avenue, according to a Ministry of Housing media release. Residents are expected to start moving in there in February.

Turning Points Collaborative Society will manage the other 60 tiny homes at 2740 Highway 97 North starting in March. It manages shelters in Vernon, Kelowna and West Kelowna along with providing other services.

READ MORE: The true cost of Kelowna’s tiny homes for the homeless

“The societies will provide support services such as daily meals, 24/7 staffing, access to skills training and support navigating the housing system. Individuals moving into these homes will be assessed and matched with appropriate supports,” the ministry said in the release.

The housing sites are on city-owned land, which is being leased to the province for a nominal fee.

The 120 tiny homes are intended as temporary housing to give BC Housing time to work with the city to build more supportive housing.

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