A long-awaited conversion of an old downtown-area motel into affordable housing is nearing completion.
As workers carry out the finishing touches, the first of the tenants have begun moving into what was once the Economy Inn but is now known as Olive's Branch on Third Avenue at Edmonton Street
City council approved rezoning for the purpose in November 2017.
The Association Advocating for Women and Children is managing the site which will give people with mental health and addictions challenges the support they need within their own homes at rental rates they can afford.
The provincial government put $4 million towards purchasing and renovating the building.
"Having a supportive environment with safe, secure housing can help people stabilize and begin rebuilding their lives," Municipal Affairs and Housing Minister Selina Robinson said in a news release issued Tuesday.
"These new homes are going to provide crucial support to people living in poverty, experiencing homelessness, and those dealing with mental-health and addictions challenges."
The building features 28 suites with private washrooms and small kitchenettes, as well as communal dining and laundry areas and will be staffed around the clock, seven days a week.
Residents pay a monthly rent of $450, which is the $375 social assistance shelter allowance provided by the provincial government to people experiencing homelessness, plus $75 for cable, internet, laundry and one meal per day.
When residents are ready to move into independent housing, staff will help them view apartments and work with landlords to support stable tenancies.
"These 28 new homes represent safety and security for too many who have never known it," AWAC executive director Connie Abe said in the release. "Helping house our community's most marginalized citizens will go a long way in helping them rebuild their lives."
Renovations included upgrades to the water service, sprinkler system and fire alarm system installation, improved lighting, roofing and a common kitchen for residents.
According to the 2018 Homeless Count, 129 individuals in Prince George were homeless. Of these, 79 per cent are Indigenous.
Under its new Building BC programs, the provincial government has committed to create an additional 105 affordable housing units in Prince George, including 50 units for Indigenous peoples and 55 units of transition housing for women.
Currently, B.C. Housing supports 156 other housing units throughout Prince George.
