BY AMAN SINGH

NDP MLA for Richmond-Queensborough

WE know that for too many years people in BC have been struggling to find stable housing, including here in Richmond. We also know this need is even greater for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

That’s why we’ve partnered with the City of Richmond to open Aster Place, a three-storey modular building with 40 self-contained units, each with a private washroom and kitchenette. Residents of the building will also have access to a commercial kitchen, laundry facilities, and storage space.

Located at 2520 Smith St., Aster Place will replace Richmond’s temporary Emergency Response Centre, which has provided safe accommodation for vulnerable people during the pandemic and is now set to close. Aster Place will operate for approximately three years until a permanent supportive housing building opens in the community.

People who live in supportive housing include young people, seniors, people with disabilities, people who have experienced trauma or poverty, and people who have struggled with the high cost of housing.

Community Builders Group will operate the building and will provide residents with support services, including daily meals, life skills training, employment assistance and counselling, physical and mental health resources, and access to addiction treatment and recovery services. The site will feature 24/7 staffing to provide around-the-clock support to residents.

We know that when vulnerable people have stable housing with supports, they can access things like health care and skills training to help rebuild their lives, supporting healthy and safe communities for everyone.

This project is part of the more than 35,000 new homes that are complete or underway for people in B.C. through provincial government investments made since 2017, including more than 200 homes in Richmond.

To learn about the steps we are taking to tackle the housing crisis and deliver affordable homes for British Columbians, visit: https://workingforyou.gov.bc.ca/.