Kelowna Launches 60 Supportive Tiny Homes at Balsam Place to Aid Residents Experiencing Homelessness

Kelowna is poised to take a major step in addressing homelessness with a groundbreaking project that introduces 60 temporary tiny homes. This initiative, driven by the Government of British Columbia, is designed to bring hope and stability to individuals facing housing insecurity.

The new development, known as Balsam Place, is strategically located at 3199 Appaloosa Road. As the third HEARTH site in the city, Balsam Place joins STEP Place and Trailside Housing to collectively offer 179 supportive homes for Kelowna’s unhoused community. The project is a reflection of a strong commitment to providing safe and secure housing, with innovative solutions to meet urgent needs.

Every Detail Matters: Each tiny home is thoughtfully designed with a private entrance, bed, desk, mini fridge, heating, air conditioning, and ample storage space. In addition, shared spaces for dining, relaxation, and laundry offer a sense of community.

A suite of robust safety protections, including security lighting, cameras, and controlled access gates, ensures that residents feel secure at all times. At the heart of the design is a commitment to safety and dignity, making sure that every resident has an environment that supports both independence and well-being.

United for Change:

The project is managed on a day-to-day basis by Connective, a respected non-profit housing provider. The initiative not only provides housing but also connects residents with critical wellness and support services such as on-site social workers, mental health care, and life-skills programming.

At the announcement, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs Ravi Kahlon affirmed, “Everyone deserves a safe, inclusive place to live and a chance to build a secure future.” Mayor Tom Dyas echoed this sentiment, highlighting the success of previous HEARTH sites and the anticipated positive impact of Balsam Place.

Residents are expected to begin moving in gradually starting July 2025, with the community set to provide stability for at least three years as individuals work toward securing permanent housing solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: What is the primary goal of the new tiny homes project?

  A: The project aims to provide temporary, supportive housing for Kelowna residents facing homelessness, while offering comprehensive services to help them transition to permanent housing.

• Q: How is the design of these homes tailored to ensure residents’ safety and comfort?

  A: Each tiny home features a private entrance, essential amenities, and is complemented by shared spaces and state-of-the-art security measures like controlled access gates and cameras.

• Q: Who is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations at Balsam Place?

  A: The non-profit housing provider Connective will operate Balsam Place, ensuring that residents receive both housing and essential wellness support.