First look inside Hearthstone

A 46-unit supportive housing project will open its doors to the homeless next week in Kelowna. 

"These homes will help get people indoors and, just as important, into a supportive environment where they will have the services they need to rebuild their lives and prepare to move on to more permanent housing," Selina Robinson, minister of municipal affairs and housing, said during a tour of the facility on Wednesday.

"This benefits everyone in Kelowna. By addressing homelessness, we're working to raise the quality of life of everyone in our communities."

Hearthstone, located on Commerce Avenue, is a three-storey, modular-constructed building. Each unit is 341 square feet and has its own kitchen and bathroom. Five of the units are wheelchair accessible.

The building features a communal kitchen, dining area, lounge with access to an outdoor deck, a secured entry and a medical room.

The John Howard Society will operate the building and provide residents with access to round-the clock, on-site staff and support services, including meal programs, life and employment skills training, health and wellness support services, and opportunities for volunteer work.

The temporary supportive housing project will be in operation for up to four years, allowing residents the opportunity to transition to more permanent housing.

"I have been able to meet several of the people that will be moving in here. I have shown them photos, which has resulted in more tears then I can count," said building manager Dani Moretto.

"The change in people once they have a stable place to live in is dramatic, and I never get tired of seeing it," Moretto added.