Whereas the toxic drug crisis continues to surge across the province and the lasting effects of overdose can potentially lead to acquired brain injury which can include organ failure, nerve damage, paralysis, memory loss, mental disorientation, diminished motor skills, reduced physical and cognitive functioning, and behavioural changes; And whereas communities across the province are implementing many initiatives in support of all residents safety and wellbeing such as Public Safety and Social Development Frameworks; And whereas the Province has developed a complex care framework that acknowledges the growing number of people in our communities who require housing and have overlapping health, mental health, trauma and acquired brain injuries; yet there are no established timelines and residents continue to suffer in the interim; And whereas the Province has appointed Health Authorities as the lead for plan implementation: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM ask that the Province provides immediate and clear instruction to Health Authorities, inclusive of timelines and funding, to prioritize implementation of complex care facilities and the integration of complex care supports in existing or new facilities.
Ministry of Health Complex Care Housing CCH is designed for people with significant health needs who are at risk of experiencing homelessness. Residents may have mental health or addiction challenges, brain injuries, intellectual or developmental disabilities, chronic illnesses, andor mobility issues. As of April 1, 2025, CCH services are in place for more than 570 people across the province, and an additional 240 units are in development. Abbotsford, Burnaby, Kamloops, Kelowna, Nanaimo, New Westminster, Prince George, Sechelt, Surrey, Vancouver, and Victoria have all been selected to receive a portion of 200 new purpose-built units. The Ministry of Health and Ministry of Housing and Municipal Affairs are working closely with BC Housing, regional health authorities, municipal partners, non-profit operators, and other interested and impacted parties to identify and advance development opportunities. The remaining 40 units will be Indigenous-led. The Province is working closely with Indigenous groups to identify partners and priority communities. It is important to ensure each CCH building is well-designed to meet the needs of residents and the staff who will be working there. Each project has a unique development timeline depending on the location. More information on target completion dates will be provided throughout each project lifecycle.