Whereas existing provincial and regional health providers and housing programs and associated funding models arent in alignment to meet the complex mental health and housing needs of our communities. And whereas the local governments have acknowledged the need for specialized housing resources allocated to clients with complex and unique needs as the current programing model for housing units is not equipped to house those individuals with these types of challenges. Therefore be it resolved that UBCM ask the Province to invest in a new supportive housing model, along with an integrated approach to housing supports and regional health services, to address the needs of individuals with the most complex and unique needs.
Ministry of Attorney General and Minister Responsible for Housing The Province has an ongoing commitment to provide supportive housing for people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. People in need of supportive housing are often some of the communitys most vulnerable. Many require a range of health care, mental health and addictions services. As part of Budget 2018, the Building BC: Supportive Housing Fund was established to invest 1.2 billion over ten years to deliver up to 2,500 new homes with 247 support services for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. With Budget 2019 and 2020 commitments, the province has committed to developing a total of 4,900 units of supportive housing. BC Housing leads the creation of these new projects in partnership with non-profit housing providers, government authorities and community groups. Non-profit housing providers operate supportive units that are a mix of single-room occupancy SRO hotels and self- contained units. They provide a range of on-site, non-clinical supports such as life-skills training and connections to health care and substance use services. Additional clinical supports are offered through health authorities. When it comes to meeting complex needs, it is important to recognize that individuals needs will vary and change over time. Responses to these needs may look different depending on circumstances. Factors may include the types of supports that are required, the configuration of housing and services, and the community resources that are available to deliver the necessary services. The Ministry acknowledges that meeting the complex health and housing needs of people in BC requires a coordinated approach between the Ministry of Attorney General and Minister Responsible for Housing, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions, BC Housing and all Health Authorities. Ministry staff are working in collaboration with these ministries and partners to ensure the supportive housing model promotes an integrated approach to housing and health services.