SOOKE – New Democrat MLA Ravi Parmar says Indigenous individuals and families living in Sooke will now have access to more below-market homes in the community with the opening of 2075 Drennan St.

“These 170 new homes for people represent the largest expansion of affordable housing in the District of Sooke’s history,” said Ravi Parmar, MLA for Langford Juan de Fuca. “By giving people affordable housing options in their communities, near their families and their culture, we’re creating a more inclusive, supportive place to live.”

The development contains two identical five-storey wood-frame buildings, which include 170 homes, 34 of which have been reserved for people with very low incomes and will be rented at the shelter rate of $500 a month. This ensures they are affordable for those receiving social assistance, persons with disabilities, or on a basic seniors’ pension. The remaining units will be rented at below-market rates.

The buildings include a mix of studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom homes. The development also includes a communal gathering space, accessible parking spaces and a playground on the property. The project is the result of a partnership between federal and provincial governments, the Capital Regional District and M’akola Housing Society, which will own and operate the building.

This project is part of a $19-billion housing investment by the B.C. government. Since 2017, the province has nearly 78,000 new homes that have been delivered or are underway, including more than 275 affordable homes in Sooke. 

For government news release: https://news.gov.bc.ca/30790