July 31st, 2014 — Ms. Sarah Petrescu published the following article in the July 31st edition of the Times Colonist newspaper, titled “Victoria apartment building donated to house homeless youth“. The following is an excerpt:
An anonymous donor has given a $725,000 Victoria apartment complex to the region’s homeless youth.
With four two-bedroom units, the apartment building on Davie Street in the South Jubilee neighbourhood will be the subject of a massive community makeover in September.
“The donor, who approached us, has worked with children and youth and understands how important stable housing is for them,” said Mark Muldoon, executive director of Threshold Housing Society.
The non-profit charity provides supportive and semi-independent housing for youth ages 16 to 21 at risk of homelessness, including those in government care. Many need a stable home to finish high school or enter the work force, he said, noting the youth do not have behavourial issues or a criminal history.
“This is so exciting for us, especially at this time,” said Muldoon, citing a spring spike in housing demand and increased food costs.
“It’s been a perfect storm of things. To get a gift like this building is such a boon,” he said.
The 1950s apartment complex, zoned for residential and office use, is just a block down from another Threshold home for boys. It will be used as semi-independent housing for up to eight young people. One unit will also have an office for Threshold staff and be used for life skills training, such as cooking.
The building needs substantial renovations before youth can move in, which is where Paul Latour’s Hero Work Program comes in.