Forty people have a place to call home now that a new supportive housing program has opened its doors in Newton.
Located at 13620 80th Ave., The Nest is a three-storey modular building with 40 studio units, each with a private washroom and kitchen, for individuals who are homeless or at risk of
homelessness. The building also includes lounge and dining areas, healthcare space and a commercial kitchen.
Phoenix Society operates the project and provides on-site staff and support services for residents 24/7, including meal programs, life and employment skills training, health and wellness support services and opportunities for volunteer work.
“Phoenix Society is excited to have opened this much-needed facility that provides new homes and essential supports to some of the most vulnerable members of our community,” said Keir Macdonald, CEO of Phoenix Society. “The Nest provides a range of programs and supports and a continuum of care that truly meets people where they are at. We thank the province and the City of Surrey for their support.”
Sixteen of the 40 units will be designated as supportive recovery units and available to those who have recently completed a treatment program and are at risk of homelessness.
“We are pleased to be opening this supportive housing in Newton, on the heels of recently opened Peterson Place,” said Surrey Mayor Doug McCallum. “Together, these projects are proof of our commitment to working with the province to deliver much-needed housing across our city. Homelessness is a complex challenge we must address together as we work towards ensuring all of our residents have a safe place to call home.”
Harry Bains, MLA for Surrey-Newton, said these new homes would be “life-changing for 40 people in the Surrey-Newton community. We are grateful to be working with the City of Surrey and Phoenix Society to provide a place to call home to help people experiencing homelessness.”
Residents began moving into The Nest this past July.
This is the second project to open as part of a commitment between the province and the City of Surrey to deliver 250 permanent supportive homes in the community.
Phoenix Society is a multi-service agency dedicated to providing accessible services and opportunities to people who face barriers related to addiction, mental health, housing, education, criminal justice involvement and/or employment.
Founded in 1989, Phoenix Society has grown from an idea to its first recovery programs. It is now a multi-faceted, integrated service provider that offers various programs and support services, helping residents and program participants achieve positive outcomes in their lives. Today, Phoenix Society is recognized for its vision and contribution to changes in public policy and leadership in the areas of social innovation and community development, that has furthered our goal of a more inclusive community.
Learn more at phoenixsociety.com or contact staff at The Nest by emailing thenest@phoenixsociety.com.
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