The province is giving $720,000 in funding to the SHINE program, which helps seniors find support and housing in B.C.
The announcement was made by Mental Health and Addictions Minister Sheila Malcomson in Nanaimo on Monday (Dec. 20).
The SHINE program (Seniors Housing Information and Navigation Ease) is led by the Seniors Services Society of BC and “is a province-wide initiative designed to facilitate timely access to and navigation of appropriate housing services and supports for seniors.”
Society CEO Alison Silgardo said that the past couple of years have shown the need to help seniors to navigate housing and other supports.
“Seniors and Elders in our communities can feel especially isolated at this challenging time,” said Malcolmson.
The province said research shows that access to housing and mental-health supports can reduce the risks of addiction and mental health struggles for seniors.
