Streets to Homes has evolved from a pilot to a full-fledged program, thanks in part to two new grants.
The two-year old initiative has received a three-year grant of $230,000 from the United Way and a one-time grant of $60,000 from the Victoria Foundation.
To date, the program has helped 72 people who were previously homeless transition into private rental housing, by providing supports to both the tenant and landlord.
A survey of people housed found 91 per cent of those living in apartments were still there six months later.
The program has also housed another 14 individuals in supportive and transitional housing.
Streets to Homes was launched by the Coalition to End Homelessness, but is now administrated by Pacifica Housing.
“We are thrilled with the program’s success to date and know its making a significant contribution towards bringing about long-term change in people’s lives,” said Pacifica executive director Karyn French.
The program has a budget of about $850,000, half of which is rental subsidies provided by B.C. Housing. The other half covers five full-time support workers, as well as move-in funding for tenants, including relocation costs, suite remediation and basic household items, if needed.
rholmen@vicnews.com
