New affordable Indigenous housing opens in Vernon

Phase 2 of an affordable Indigenous housing project in Vernon will provide 35 new homes.

The second phase of Thunderbird Manor, 5577 27 Ave. in Vernon, is a purpose-built five-storey building with one, two, three and four bedroom suites, according to a Ministry of Housing media release issued today, May 21.

"Through the Indigenous Housing Fund, we're partnering with Indigenous non-profit housing providers, First Nations and other Indigenous organizations to create more homes like this that meet the needs of Indigenous families and individuals on and off reserve,” Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon said in the release.

Nine of the units are accessible for people with disabilities the remaining homes are adaptable and can accommodate older people who want to continue living there as they age. There are five units reserved for youth in Thunderbird Manor – Phase 1 and three in Thunderbird Manor Phase 2, the ministry said.

The province spent $7.6 million to build the second phase with $413,000 in annual operating funds. The City of Vernon and North Okanagan regional district didn’t collect  $350,000 in development cost charges as their contribution.

"With costs high in the region and rental housing supply at a low, 35 new units are a great start,” Okanagan Indian Band Chief Byron Louis said in the release “However, there is always room for more affordable living initiatives for Indigenous Peoples.”

Thunderbird Manor is owned and operated by Vernon Native Housing Society and is right next door to the first phase which includes 35 rental homes.

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