...Continued from "Transitional"

This configuration gives us three housing options for people: shorter stay, longer term transitional and permanent, second stage housing, each level targeting those who require the levels of staffing (24/7), flexible services and minimal barrier approach to keep them successfully housed, thanks to operating funding from Fraser Health and basement and ground floor store front commercial rentals.

Lookout established this housing in 2001 in this area based on an identified service gap, and to reduce the need for New Westminster residents to come to the Downtown Eastside area of Vancouver.

There was no supportive shelter or housing for people repeatedly experiencing homelessness in New Westminster, and particularly so for men and women coping with a variety of challenges such as mental illness, addictions, chronic health conditions, etc.

History
The housing was at risk of being converted to offices. With funding from the Human Resource Development Canada (HRDC) homelessness initiative (Supporting Community Partnerships Initiative (SCPI), BC Housing, the City of New Westminster, Fraser Health and the Vancouver Foundation, Lookout was able to purchase and renovate the building.

Renovations were completed in the spring, 2003 much to the joy of the 24 residents. As critical as the housing situation is in New Westminster, there is no shortage of referrals for housing and we process applications frequently.

We encourage people to dedicate an hour or so of their time to meeting with our Tenant Support Workers as part of the application process. It is important that the Applicant has an understanding of our objectives, and is given an opportunity to see the building.

Another step in the process involves our Tenant Selection Committee: a group of volunteers from other agencies and services. The Cliff Block Team is responsible for presenting comprehensive and concise information on behalf of each applicant to this committee, which then meets with the applicant and recommends housing.

The Cliff Block would not exist if not for the support and action of our partners: this includes the funders, but also the service organizations who work closely with the homeless.