From April 1st to June 30th the Nicola Valley Homelessness Support Project (NVHSP) team provided 44 community members with services focused on housing placement and stabilization of housing/wellness.  Eleven people were supported to find housing placements, 5 who were either homeless at the shelter or part of hidden homelessness, and 6 who were living in either unsafe housing or were losing current housing due to a variety of life choices/circumstances.  All 11 of those housed have remained housed.  This is a testament to the work of NVHSP and wrap-around supports provided through community partnerships and other ASK Wellness Society resources.

Poverty and the lack of affordable housing continue to be a heart-breaking reality facing our rural community.  Over 77% of those accessing NVHSP supports required connection to food security resources and over 34% required support accessing all eligible income, such as filling out applications for income assistance, government benefits, and filing taxes.  A total of 31 people benefited from a financial supplement. Additionally, through partnerships with Conayt Friendship Society, Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction (MSDPR), and Nicola Valley Shelter and Support Society (NVSSS), outreach services were provided to those living without homes.  Tent kits, food supplies, harm reduction, and information about community resources were brought directly to our most vulnerable community members.

As part of our outreach support services, NVHSP team also provides education and employment related services to address poverty and mitigate homelessness in our community.  Seven individuals were connected to community educational and/or vocational support services.  One program participant was supported to connect with educational opportunities to increase their skill development.  Two additional participants found employment this quarter.  NVHSP services that center around educational and/or vocational support include transportation, facilitating appointments with both academic advisors and WorkBC, sharing information about community resources, online job searches, and stabilization of housing so that education can continue.