Kelowna, B.C.’s Step Place provides tiny homes for individuals experiencing homelessness, such as Kristina Bath and Duane Fraser. After living in tents and homeless shelters, Bath finally has a place she can call her own. The tiny homes, the size of garden sheds, offer residents a sense of community and family. The homes are being decorated with colorful vinyl to create a more homey atmosphere, and additional amenities such as a communal kitchen, washroom facilities, and access to programs to help residents get back on their feet are being provided.
Patricia Bacon, the executive director of John Howard Society of Okanagan and Kootenay, explained that Step Place offers a variety of programs, including life skills training, housing navigation, mental health and substance use coordination, and group programs to assist residents with budgeting, cooking, wellness checks, resume building, and other individualized supports. For individuals like Bath and Fraser, these programs are crucial in helping them regain stability and independence. The community at Step Place offers a safe and supportive environment for residents to thrive.
In addition to Step Place, another housing development called Trailside is nearing completion near Highway 97, catering to individuals aged 55 and over and people with disabilities. This modular housing will provide additional units for those experiencing homelessness in Kelowna. The City of Kelowna is also planning to announce a third location with 60 more tiny homes in the near future. Mayor Tom Dyas expressed anticipation for the announcement and highlighted the city’s commitment to addressing homelessness through initiatives like Step Place and Trailside.
The residents at Step Place, like Bath and Fraser, are grateful for the opportunity to have a stable and safe home after facing housing insecurity. These tiny homes offer not only physical shelter but also a sense of belonging and community. The support and programs provided at Step Place are invaluable in helping residents rebuild their lives and work towards a more stable future. With more housing developments like Trailside and future plans for additional tiny homes, Kelowna is taking steps towards addressing homelessness and providing individuals with the resources they need to thrive.
Overall, Step Place and similar developments in Kelowna are making a significant impact in the lives of individuals experiencing homelessness. By providing safe and affordable housing, access to support programs, and a sense of community, these tiny homes are helping residents like Bath and Fraser transition out of homelessness and towards a brighter future. The commitment of organizations like John Howard Society of Okanagan and Kootenay, as well as the City of Kelowna, demonstrates a dedication to addressing homelessness and creating a more inclusive and supportive community for all residents.
