Twenty-eight affordable rental homes have opened in Penticton, providing new housing for Indigenous families, individuals and Elders with low to moderate incomes.
The five-storey building at 603 Main St., developed through the provincial Community Housing Fund, includes one-, two- and three-bedroom units. The homes are close to public transit, schools, restaurants, shops and other community services.
Housing and Municipal Affairs Minister Christine Boyle said the project reflects partnerships between the provincial and federal governments, housing providers and Indigenous organizations aimed at increasing affordable housing options.
“People deserve the option to affordably live in the community they love, close to the family, friends and amenities they rely on,” said Boyle. “We’re working in partnership with the federal government, housing providers, Indigenous leaders and organizations to help keep people connected and deliver the housing options they need.”
The building includes heat pumps in every unit, covered parking, 12 one-bedroom homes, six of which are wheelchair accessible, and a second-floor outdoor gathering space accessible by elevator.
The project is owned and operated by M’akola Housing Society, a non-profit organization that provides affordable housing primarily for Indigenous people across British Columbia. According to the society, it manages more than 2,400 homes throughout the province. Residents are expected to begin moving into the building in August.
The provincial government said the development is part of its $19-billion housing investment. It said that since 2017, more than 99,000 homes have been completed or are underway across British Columbia, including more than 450 in Penticton.
Stephen Fuhr, MP for Kelowna and Secretary of State (Defence Procurement), said the funding will help address local housing needs and support people experiencing housing insecurity.
“Canada’s government is committed to providing communities the support they need to develop local solutions to homelessness. This funding will provide Penticton residents with 28 new affordable homes to meet the diverse needs of the people who will be living here. This marks another step forward in our bold, ambitious plan to build Canada strong.”
Amelia Boultbee, MLA for Penticton-Summerland, said the project demonstrates the value of Indigenous-led housing initiatives tailored to local needs.
Margaret Pfoh, chief executive officer of the Aboriginal Housing Management Association, said affordable, accessible housing remains a pressing need for many Indigenous people living in urban communities.
Kevin Albers, chief executive officer of M’akola Housing Society, said the homes will provide residents with stable housing close to essential services and community supports.
Penticton Mayor Julius Bloomfield said the development will help expand affordable housing options for residents at different stages of life while supporting the city’s goal of creating an accessible and inclusive community.
