Maple Ridge residents back supportive housing after initial fears

In Maple Ridge, British Columbia, Julia Clissold and many of her neighbours initially opposed a planned 52-unit supportive housing project called Rivers Reach, fearing it would bring the same issues as a nearby temporary modular housing site, drug use, noise, and police presence.

The previous temporary site had caused significant concern, with frequent calls to police about safety and disturbances, and led to protests when the province sought to clear the land.

Coast Mental Health, a non-profit organization, was tasked with managing both the temporary and permanent housing projects. The new project’s success, however, stemmed from careful planning, responsive management, and consistent engagement with the community. Coast Mental Health actively sought feedback and made changes to the building’s design and operations, addressing concerns about loitering, cleanliness, and safety. They also secured funding for on-site health support, an unusual feature for supportive housing, and prioritized creating a sense of community within the building.

This shift in perception occurred alongside a change in local leadership. After a new mayor and council were elected in 2022, they chose to collaborate with the province and Coast Mental Health, unlike their predecessors who had clashed with them. This collaboration, combined with the effective management of Rivers Reach, has transformed former opponents like Ms. Clissold into advocates, demonstrating that supportive housing can be successfully integrated into a neighbourhood with community buy-in.