Kelowna transitional housing touted as successful as dozens find permanent homes

Finding Home: Bryan Garson’s Journey Through Kelowna’s Tiny Home Community

Bryan Garson’s life took a significant turn last March when he moved into Kelowna, B.C.’s first tiny home community, Step Place. This 60-unit transitional housing development is designed to support individuals experiencing homelessness, offering more than just a roof over their heads. For Garson, having a key to his own door has been transformative. "I don’t feel homeless now because I have a key to my door," he shared. "It makes you feel human again." After three years of facing tough life circumstances that left him unhoused, Garson has found a sense of dignity and normalcy in his new surroundings. He is determined never to experience homelessness again and is now on the verge of moving into permanent housing, thanks to a rent supplement approved by BC Housing and Interior Health. The prospect of having his own private bathroom, window, sofa, and a place to relax fills him with anticipation. "Oh, I can’t wait just to have my own private bathroom, my own window, my own sofa, a place to relax and call home," he stated.

The Success of Step Place: A Model for Transitional Housing

Since its opening on February 29, 2024, Step Place has become a beacon of hope for those striving to rebuild their lives. According to the John Howard Society, which operates the site, 39 people have successfully transitioned into permanent housing. This success is not merely due to the provision of housing but the comprehensive support system in place. Patricia Bacon, CEO of the John Howard Society of Okanagan and Kootenay, emphasized that Step Place offers "housing with intentional layers of programming." These programs include individualized case management, employment and life skill development, mental health support, and access to treatment. Bacon described the offering as "a robust program here," highlighting the holistic approach that addresses the diverse needs of residents. The success of Step Place is mirrored at Trailside transitional housing on Highway 97, where 24 people have secured permanent housing since its opening in May 2024, as reported by its operator, Turning Points Collaborative Society.

Expanding Solutions: New Tiny Home Communities in Kelowna

The positive outcomes from Step Place and Trailside have prompted further action to address homelessness in Kelowna. Construction is underway on Appaloosa Road in the northern part of the city for another 60-unit tiny home community. This development, slated for completion later this year, will be operated by Connective, a social services organization. The primary goal of this new community is to assist previously unhoused individuals in transitioning to long-term housing. Patricia Bacon underscored the importance of such initiatives, stating, "People were languishing in shelters, and we just needed to interrupt that. It can’t be that if you go into shelter, you are forever stuck in shelter, and now we have changed that narrative." These tiny home communities are not just places to live; they are stepping stones toward stability and independence.

Renewed Hope and Future Goals: Bryan Garson’s Story

For Bryan Garson, the transitional housing at Step Place has been a lifeline, providing him with the support and resources needed to rebuild his life. The community has given him renewed hope for the future, motivating him to set personal goals. "To get back to work, take care of myself, and live a nice quiet life in my house and see my son," he shared. Garson’s journey exemplifies the impact of these tiny home communities, which go beyond providing shelter to fostering a sense of community and offering pathways to permanent housing. His story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the difference that access to proper support can make.

The Importance of Supportive Housing

The success of Kelowna’s tiny home communities highlights the critical role of supportive housing in addressing homelessness. These developments provide a stable environment where individuals can access essential services and work toward their goals. Patricia Bacon’s observation that "it’s not just housing" rings true, as the combination of housing with intentional layers of programming creates a robust support system. This approach recognizes that homelessness is often the result of multiple challenges, requiring a multifaceted response. By offering individualized case management, employment and life skill development, mental health support, and access to treatment, these communities empower residents to take control of their lives and work toward a brighter future.

A Pathway to Permanent Housing

Bryan Garson’s upcoming move to permanent housing is a celebration of the effectiveness of transitional housing models like Step Place. His journey from homelessness to having a place to call home illustrates the transformative power of these initiatives. The approval of a rent supplement through BC Housing and Interior Health has been instrumental in facilitating this transition, demonstrating the importance of collaboration between different agencies. As Garson looks forward to the comforts of his own home, his story serves as a beacon of hope for others facing similar challenges. The success of tiny home communities in Kelowna underscores the need for continued investment in supportive housing solutions, providing individuals with the tools and resources necessary to thrive.