Nearly 40 new shelter spaces open in Williams Lake

The opening of Roots on First in Williams Lake provides 38 new shelter spaces for individuals experiencing homelessness, addressing a critical community need. BC Housing funded the project with $3. 2 million, enhancing services with features like daily meals, laundry, and health support. Minister of Housing Christine Boyle stated that the additional shelter spaces are vital for community safety and support. The facility, which began welcoming guests in early July 2025, is an improvement over the Hamilton Hotel's previous 20 spaces.

Mayor Surinderpal Rathor praised the collaborative efforts of BC Housing and local partners to support vulnerable populations. The shelter's services include an overdose-prevention site, ensuring resident safety. This initiative is part of a larger strategy by the Province to tackle homelessness and promote stable housing solutions. Since 2017, over 93,250 homes have been delivered or are underway across British Columbia, including 75 in Williams Lake.