The Healthy Living Complex of Care in Surrey provides essential hygiene and respite services to those without regular access to bathrooms, showers, and shelter. Since November 2022, the facility has helped thousands of people like Angelina Ryan, who credits the centre for helping her secure housing. However, the centre is facing closure due to the expiration of provincial funding, which was previously provided by the Union of B.C. Municipalities through the City of Surrey. BC Housing is currently covering the costs temporarily, but without a new source of funding, the facility may have to shut down by August 15. The total monthly operating costs amount to $75,000, covering expenses such as cleaning and staffing.
The closure of the facility would have significant implications, as it not only provides essential services for maintaining hygiene and promoting health among the homeless population, but also plays a crucial role in restoring their self-esteem and overall well-being. While the land and structures are owned by the City of Surrey, the city has indicated that it is not responsible for funding the facility, as it was initially seen as a one-time relief program during the pandemic. Mayor Brenda Locke believes that the provincial government should take responsibility for funding such amenities for those in need, emphasizing that it is not included in the city’s budget for the year. Despite this, CEO Jack O’Halloran remains determined to secure alternative sources of funding to keep the centre operational.
O’Halloran highlights the importance of the facility in providing a safe and clean environment for individuals living on the street, emphasizing the critical role hygiene plays in their overall well-being. He stresses the necessity of having a place where individuals can rejuvenate and have access to basic amenities, particularly in light of the challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness. Angelina Ryan spoke out about the impact of the facility on her life, urging the city to consider the consequences of its closure on the homeless population. She emphasizes the importance of having access to facilities that allow individuals to maintain their hygiene and dignity, reflecting on her own experiences of feeling isolated and insecure while living on the streets.
Despite the challenges faced in securing ongoing funding for the facility, O’Halloran remains committed to exploring all possible avenues, including private sources of funding, to ensure that the centre can continue to serve those in need. He acknowledges the critical role that the facility plays in providing essential services and support to vulnerable populations in Surrey, highlighting the potential negative impacts of its closure on the community. As the deadline for securing funding approaches, O’Halloran and his team are actively seeking solutions to keep the facility operational and continue providing vital services to those who rely on it for their well-being and dignity.
In the event that the facility does close, the impact on the homeless population in Surrey could be significant, as many individuals depend on the services provided by the Healthy Living Complex of Care for their basic needs. The closure would not only deprive individuals of access to essential hygiene services but also impact their overall health and well-being. Without a secure source of funding, the future of the facility remains uncertain, prompting concerns among advocates and community members about the potential consequences of its closure. As the deadline for securing funding approaches, efforts are underway to explore all possible options to keep the facility operational and ensure that essential services continue to be available to those who rely on them for their daily survival.
