Data released by the city suggests a temporary winter shelter that opened last fall in Penticton has been a success, with seven people who once lived at the site transitioning into permanent housing.

The shelter, located at 402 Warren Ave., opened in November and has since accommodated 65 people.

Sixty per cent of those individuals, according to the city, have lived in Penticton for more than five years.

香蕉视频直播淲orking with 100 More Homes, BC Housing, Interior Health (IH), local businesses, and other partners, we wanted to create a locally made solution that ensured shelter residents received the care they need and that a safety plan provided support for neighbours,香蕉视频直播� said Julie Czeck, the city香蕉视频直播檚 director of public safety and partnerships.

A midterm report submitted to Penticton City Council says the temporary shelter has shown "promising" results. It added that the facility is also recording wins 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), Czeck said.

The report states that IH has seen a spike in demand for its services by the shelter's guests, with 47 primary care physician contacts in December. 

Representatives from the Penticton Industrial Development Association (PIDA) and local chamber of commerce have served as liaisons for nearby businesses that may be impacted by the shelter's operations.

Concerns over cleanliness in the area and lack of visibility outside businesses at night were shared when it first opened, according to PIDA president Frank Conci.

"Maintaining cleanliness and having pride in the temporary winter shelter has been a key focus for staff and peers, (which has) fostered positive relationships for the neighbourhood," said Conci.

More than 60 clean-up activities have taken place and private security has performed 120 permanent patrols, he added.

"This winter shelter is working," Penticton Mayor Julius Bloomfield said during his State of the City Address in January. "Council has gotten a chance to tour the shelter, and it was a powerful reminder of why we help people in need."

The temporary facility will remain open until March 31, around the time when city officials are expected to present a final report to council.

"If this is what's working then this is what we should make happen in Penticton for every shelter," said Coun. Campbell Watt.