Construction is nearing completion on the Dzee Inzu Yikh housing complex in 亚洲天堂 Lake. It is scheduled to open its remaining 35 units in the fall of 2024.

The province purchased the 亚洲天堂 Lake Motor Inn in April 2020 to convert into homes to support people at risk of or experiencing homelessness in 亚洲天堂 Lake and the surrounding six First Nations. The location was previously used as an extreme weather response shelter. It is currently operating as a supportive housing complex, operated by Lake Babine Nation, known as Dzee Inzu Yikh.

There are currently nine occupied units at Dzee Inzu Yikh while it is being converted from a shelter to permanent supportive housing. A representative from BC Housing said construction was delayed because of the pandemic and supply chain problems.

They also said that renovating a occupied building presented challenges. Safety precautions were in place to keep residents safe. BC Housing said they have remained within the scope of the budget despite these changing factors.

鈥淭he staggered opening of the units has allowed for the immediate housing needs of the most vulnerable in the community to be addressed, while providing more time to fully renovate and repurpose the motel,鈥� BC Housing said.

When completed, Dzee Inzu Yikh will have 44 units, split evenly between the front and back of the building. New residents can move in when construction is completed.

Lake Babine Nation will consider new applicants for the new units, which will be allocated through the Coordinated Access Assessment (CAA) process to match homes with individual needs and preferences while ensuring a balanced mix of residents.

Lake Babine offers residents of Dzee Inzu Yikh daily meals provided by staff and a restaurant off-site. When the commercial kitchen and dining area are finished, meals will be prepared on-site. Units are also equipped with a kitchenette.

The staff at Dzee Inzu Yikh work with residents to ensure they receive the services they need. Employment, skills training and health and wellness support are available but not mandatory.

READ MORE: The new supportive housing complex will complete this year