A temporary winter shelter hailed by Penticton city officials and elected leaders as a success could soon get renewed life.
On March 4, municipal politicians will decide whether to approve a one-year extension of operations at the 40-bed facility and seek funding from the provincial government.
The temporary winter shelter, which opened in November 2024 at 402 Warren Ave., has supported more than 65 individuals.
It is operated by Penticton and Area Overdose Prevention Society and funded by BC Housing. The city is the leaseholder of the property.
香蕉视频直播淎ll the components of the current shelter, including its operating model and the accompanying safety and security plan, that have led to success would remain the same and in effect throughout the one-year extension," said Julie Czeck, the city香蕉视频直播檚 director of public safety and partnerships.
If Penticton City Council supports extending the temporary winter shelter, staff will engage with the province to explore potential funding options.
The facility was approved last fall on a trial basis, with operations initially tabbed to run through March 2025.
Mayor Julius Bloomfield said the temporary winter shelter is "working" during his annual State of the City Address in January.
Eleven people who once stayed at the site have transitioned into permanent housing, new city data shows.
"Council has gotten a chance to tour the shelter, and it was a powerful reminder of why we help people in need," Bloomfield said.
A report submitted to council also suggested the shelter is seeing positive trends on the public safety front.
Police calls in the area decreased by 15 per cent from November to December 2024 (from 173 to 148 calls) and by three per cent compared to November 2023 (153 calls), it stated.
香蕉视频直播淲orking with 100 More Homes, BC Housing, Interior Health, Penticton and Area Overdose Prevention Society, local businesses and other partners, we have created a model that ensured shelter residents received the care they need and that a safety plan provided support for neighbours," Czeck said.
香蕉视频直播淏ased on the successes so far and the challenge of managing 40 individuals back into street homelessness, staff are recommending the extension of the temporary winter shelter for one year."
Council's meeting kicks off at 1 p.m. on March 4.
