The controversial Moira House Shelter in Kamloops will be opening its doors to residents next week.

Located at 600 Kingston Avenue, staff at the Canadian Mental Health Association are preparing for the arrival of the first residents on April 15.

“This new shelter will provide a warm, safe place to help 40 people get inside and access the supports they need to get back on their feet,” B.C.’s Minister Responsible for Housing, David Eby, said, in a statement.

“I’m grateful to the City of Kamloops and the Canadian Mental Health Association for their co-operation and hard work to bring this shelter online quickly to help address the shortage of spaces for people experiencing homelessness.”

BC Housing says people in the shelter will have their own private space along with access to daily meals, hygiene facilities, referral to health programming and around the clock staff. There will also be a room set aside for harm reduction for some clients who use drugs.

“Our community continues to benefit from inclusive services like those offered at Moira House,” Alfred Achoba, the CMHA Kamloops Executive Director, said, in a statement.

“Shelters build capacity and connect individuals to relevant resources, offering support toward safer and healthier lifestyles, and they are a conduit to strengthen relationships within Kamloops to break barriers and stigma.”

The facility has not been without controversy from nearby businesses as well as homeowners, with safety and security their biggest concerns, since the announcement last November.

“This modular housing is a crucial step toward supporting our most vulnerable residents,” added Mayor Ken Christian, in a statement.

“Moira House is a step forward in our community, and these units will help as we address homelessness. Moira House offers a warm and safe place to live and, just as important, the supports one may need to begin rebuilding their future.”

The City of Kamloops has leased the land for this shelter for three years with an option to extend for two additional years.

Alfred Achoba will be on the NL Noon Report at 12:35 p.m. Wednesday to discuss the opening of the facility and some of the concerns.

More to come