Kristina Bath, a 45-year-old woman, recently moved into a tiny home at Step Place in Kelowna, B.C. after spending several years living in tents and homeless shelters. She expressed gratitude for the sense of community and belonging she feels at Step Place, stating that having her own space where she can lock her doors and keep her belongings safe is a completely different feeling than staying in shelters. Step Place consists of 60 tiny homes, each the size of a garden shed, which are currently being decorated with colorful vinyl to give them a more welcoming appearance. The site also features communal facilities such as a kitchen, washrooms, and access to computers, along with a range of programs to help residents transition out of homelessness.
Patricia Bacon, the executive director of John Howard Society of Okanagan and Kootenay, which operates Step Place, mentioned that the site is in the process of adding additional amenities such as flower boxes and gazebos to enhance the living experience for residents. The site offers a variety of programs including life skills training, housing support, mental health and substance use counseling, as well as group activities like budget-friendly cooking classes, wellness checks, and resume building sessions. Residents like Duane Fraser, who had been staying in a homeless shelter after being evicted from his rental home, are focused on stabilizing their lives and finding permanent housing.
In addition to Step Place, the John Howard Society is working on another housing project called Trailside, located near Highway 97 and McCurdy Road, which will offer 60 more units for individuals experiencing homelessness, specifically catering to those aged 55 and over and people with disabilities. This modular housing development is set to open in mid-May and will provide a safe and supportive environment for its residents. The City of Kelowna is also planning to unveil a third location for 60 more tiny homes in the near future, with Mayor Tom Dyas expressing anticipation for the announcement of this upcoming project within the next few months.
Overall, the initiative to provide tiny homes for individuals experiencing homelessness in Kelowna is aimed at not only offering immediate shelter but also facilitating a pathway towards stability and independence. Through the provision of essential resources, support services, and community-building efforts, Step Place and other similar projects seek to empower residents to rebuild their lives and transition out of homelessness. The colorful and welcoming appearance of the tiny homes, combined with the availability of communal facilities and programs, fosters a sense of belonging and hope for a better future among individuals like Kristina Bath and Duane Fraser who have struggled with housing insecurity.
