A project between the K’ómoks First Nation and Courtenay’s Kus-kus-sum recently won the Real Estate Foundation of B.C.’s Land Award for their freshwater project.
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Written by Raynee Novak
A new building containing affordable rental homes will be opening in Courtenay. The homes are going to be priced at 20 per cent less than market rate and are specifically for women, gender-diverse people and their children.
“These new homes in Courtenay will be a catalyst for change for women and their children in need of affordable housing in the community,” said Minister of Housing, Ravi Kahlon. “Our government recognizes the need for a diverse range of affordable housing options for people throughout our province, and we’re taking action to build those kinds of homes, so communities can thrive and stay healthy.”
The building is slated to be near to parks, schools and shops with a mix of studio, one-bedroom, two-bedrooms and three-bedroom units. There will also be parking for both vehicles and bicycles.
“These new homes will provide safe and affordable spaces for women and their children, and a sense of community, as they stabilize their lives,” said Ronna-Rae Leonard, MLA for Courtenay-Comox. “Our government is proud to have partnered with the Comox Valley Transition Society to open this building. I look forward to seeing the lasting impact these new homes will have on residents and the entire Courtenay community.”
Non-profit Comox Valley Transition Society (CVTS) will own and operate the building. Tenants will be prioritized by women and gender-diverse people, as well as seniors, Indigenous people and people living with disabilities. Some residents will be transitioning from other short-term rentals or transitional housing for women leaving violence.
“This new housing is going to be an incredible addition to our community, and will give the women and children who will be living here an affordable, stable, safe place to call home,” said Bob Wells, mayor of Courtenay. “Everyone who has been involved with this project from start to finish should feel very proud of the positive legacy they’ve helped build here.”
The 48 unit building will have 16 studio units, 21 one-bedroom units with five being accessible, eight two-bedroom units and three three-bedroom units.
“Housing continues to be a barrier to safety for women and children,” said Heather Ney, executive director, Comox Valley Transition Society (CVTS). “CVTS is proud to have worked in partnership with the development team at BC Housing to see the goal of additional affordable and long-term housing become a reality. This project creates safety and security for some of the many vulnerable people CVTS supports, including women and children who have experienced violence in their homes.”