DUNCAN – Expanded services for individuals living with mental health and addictions issues in the Cowichan Valley took one step closer to reality today, as the Vancouver Island Health Authority (VIHA) posted a Notice of Intent (NOI) signaling its plans to negotiate a lease for a 35-unit apartment building in North Cowichan.

“VIHA has been working closely with the local community for several months to improve mental health and addictions supports for clients; and through this process, we have identified a clear need for more supportive and transitional housing,” said Howard Waldner, VIHA President and CEO.  “Despite these fiscally challenging times, VIHA has made the Cowichan Valley a priority for increased and improved services, particularly in mental health and addictions programs, so we are extremely pleased to be moving towards the expansion of our housing resources in the Cowichan Valley.”

The NOI – posted on BC Bid at www.bcbid.gov.bc.ca – states that VIHA intends to negotiate a lease for a 35-unit apartment style building that would provide supportive housing for mental health and addictions clients. VIHA is seeking immediate occupancy of the building and requires it to be close to other supportive housing sites and community resources. A NOI is required under VIHA’s Fair Business Policy to inform all potential vendors of the opportunity.

The building would provide moderate intensity supportive housing for those needing transitional help back into the mainstream community and for others who need assistance developing independent living skills.

The building being considered by VIHA is Caulfield Place, an apartment building at 2546 Alexander Street, which has recently been renovated.

If there are no clarifications or issues associated with the NOI, VIHA will proceed with the project.

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Backgrounder

MODERATE INTENSITY SUPPORTIVE HOUSING

• Moderate Intensity Supportive Housing is a supportive housing model for clients who are living with mental health and addictions challenges.
• This housing model is used in jurisdictions throughout Canada, including BC, and has been used within the Vancouver Island Health Authority (VIHA) for many years, including approximately 100 units in five buildings in Greater Victoria. These existing housing programs have been evaluated and found to effectively support clients in a safe and secure manner.
• Moderate Intensity Supportive Housing is typically accessed by individuals who need transitional assistance back into the community and those who need help developing the skills necessary to live independently.
• Moderate Intensity Supportive Housing is a key component in the continuum of care for those with mental health needs or addictions issues. In Cowichan, a Moderate Intensity Supportive Housing facility could support psychiatric patients who are ready for discharge, addictions clients who area able to live in a moderately supported environment, and former residents of Warmland House who are ready to live in an alcohol and drug-free environment.
• Moderate Intensity Supportive Housing facilities are staffed 24/7 by VIHA staff who provide supports that include:
  • Treatment and medication management
  • Financial assistance and management
  • Nutritional support
  • Physical health and wellness
  • Rehabilitation and community access
  • Lifestyle education
  • Early stage addiction recovery
  • Safe and supportive community housing
• The building would be a ‘dry facility,’ meaning it would be drug and alcohol-free. 
• Length of stay will range from 3-30 months, with most clients ultimately transitioning to the standard rental market.

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Media Contact:
Anya Nimmon
VIHA Communications
250-740-6980