A new project in Saanich is showing that communities can still tackle major issues, one step at a time.
Rosalie’s Village is an example of how co-operation can enable community groups and different levels of governments to bring about real change that offers help to some of the citizens who need it most.
Rosalie’s Village is an affordable housing project on West Saanich Road that will provide 42 homes to single mothers with children and other vulnerable women.
The project, scheduled to be completed next summer, is made possible through support from the District of Saanich, the provincial government, Capital Regional District and Society of Saint Vincent de Paul of Vancouver Island, which is providing $1.6 million through fundraising as well as the land valued at nearly $1.3 million.”
The four-storey building will include a 37-space daycare, a community kitchen and tenant access to on-site supports including employment and life skills training. Rosalie’s Village is situated where residents will have easy access to health services, a number of restaurants, a shopping centre and Brydon Park.
Affordable housing promises to be a major issue for communities large and small across the country. The 42 homes provided by Rosalie’s Village does not end the need for more affordable housing across Greater Victoria, but it ends the sense of desperation for the families it will help. And, for now, maybe that’s enough.
It is easy to become overwhelmed by a feeling of helplessness when we view issues as immense and complex as affordable housing. But by focusing efforts on solutions – no matter how small – we can make for a better community, better country and better world, one block at a time.