The B.C. government says it has secured more than 900 spaces for British Columbians who need a place to self-isolate during this COVID-19 pandemic.
It includes 211 spaces across the Interior, – 50 in Kamloops at two locations. The province says it is partnering with local governments, non-profits, and the hotel industry to protect vulnerable people from the spread of COVID-19.
Across B.C., there are over 900 such spaces that have been secured at 23 sites. NL News has reached out for more information as the locations of the sites have not yet been provided.
“These new spaces are a critical part of how we can support those who are vulnerable in our community, including those who are experiencing homelessness or living in communal locations where the virus could spread more quickly,” said Housing Minister Selina Robinson, in a statement.
“In partnership with health authorities and local government, these new spaces are helping us mitigate the effect of this virus and support our health-care system in communities across the province.”
Health authorities are identifying people who need to self-isolate. They will work with BC Housing to refer people to these sites. Some of these facilities are already open, while others are expected to be in the coming days and weeks.
Kamloops Mayor Ken Christian says the city is also looking at alternate hospital space to use if needed, much like what is being done at the Vancouver Convention Centre.
“Our staff are meeting with BC Housing regularly and we’re also using that safe and secure Kamloops group that we established a couple years ago,” he said. “And they’re kind of the eyes and the ears for the local scene, and BC Housing is sort of providing a provincial perspective and a funding perspective.”
He says Sandman Centre, the Tournament Capital Centre, and Memorial Arena are potential sites that could be used.
In addition to the spaces currently secured for isolation spaces, the province says more rooms have been identified in communities across B.C. to expand capacity, if needed.
– With files from Colton Davies
