New funding adds housing, mental health teams

The Chamber continues to advocate for safe communities by calling for proven solutions that address the root causes of homelessness.

On Monday, the federal government announced $1 billion for cities to spend over the fall and winter on housing for vulnerable people. The Rapid Housing Initiative will be used to build modular homes, buy land or purchase existing accommodation, such as motels and hotels.

On Sunday, the provincial government announced that it was adding a new Assertive Community Treatment team in Greater Victoria, along with five others across BC.
Teams provide support to individuals, helping adults with "serious, complex and often persistent mental health challenges that make it difficult to manage day-to-day activities."

The teams can also help people with substance abuse issues that bring them into conflict with the law by diverting them to treatment aimed at recovery.