Orca Place—the new supportive housing facility in Parksville—is expected to open soon.
Although an exact date hasn’t been released yet, Violet Hayes, executive director, with Island Crisis Care Society, said BC Housing is planning an opening event very soon.
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BC Housing has not responded to a request for information on the opening date for Orca, but have said previously the 52-unit building at 222 Corfield St. will open this summer.
The supportive housing facility, that will be operated by Island Crisis Care Society, received more than 100 applications from individuals hoping to live at Orca Place.
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In June, BC Housing regional director Heidi Hartman, told The NEWS all 52 individuals have been chosen to live at Orca.
The individuals were chosen after collaboration between Island Crisis Care Society, BC Housing and other community partners.
As part of the criteria for moving into Orca Place, individuals had to have lived in the Parksville Qualicum Beach area for one year.
Orca Place includes 52 studio and one-bedroom suites, including six accessible units. Each room includes a private bathroom and kitchen and each resident will receive a cold breakfast and warm dinner each day.
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Island Crisis Care Society will provide 24/7 staffing for the program and maintain the building.
The facility will also take security measures such as having well-lit and fenced grounds, camera monitoring and a controlled entrance.