The Columbia Basin Trust (CBT) is giving out over $2.3 million to pay for backup power systems for seniors’ housing developments.
CBT officials say the grants target rural communities that are prone to power outages to ensure safety and comfort for residents.
“By providing funding for backup power systems, we are directly helping seniors’ housing facilities remain safe and operational during power outages,” said Ulli Mueller, Delivery of Benefits Senior Manager.
“These projects ensure that essential services like heating, cooling and medical equipment continue running when they are needed most, offering peace of mind to residents.”
The Trust says the upgrades will maintain essential services such as heating, cooling, ventilation and medical equipment when the power grid goes down.
The grants will benefit 141 affordable seniors’ rental housing units in four communities across the region.
You can find a few examples of the funded projects below.
Kaslo and District Senior Citizen’s Shelter Society – $254,000
The Trust says the Kaslo and District Senior Citizen’s Shelter Society will install a backup power system at Abbey Manor.
The upgrades will enhance emergency readiness for 10 affordable rental housing units.
“Having reliable backup power is absolutely critical for our senior facility,” said Phil Trotter, Kaslo and District Senior Citizen’s Shelter Society Board Member.
“Our facility operates specialized equipment for residents, and without power, we would be unable to provide the care they need. This support ensures we can maintain a safe and comfortable environment during extended power outages.”
Elk Valley Seniors Housing Society – $573,000
The Elk Valley Seniors Housing Society will get two grants: one to improve an 18-unit affordable rental complex ($248,000) and a 43-unit affordable rental complex ($325,000).
CBT officials say the society will purchase a backup generator for the 43-unit Lilac Terrace in Sparwood.
“Power outages can be particularly challenging for senior housing facilities, where health and safety are always top of mind, said Melissa McDougall, Elk Valley Seniors Housing Society Building Administrator.
“This backup power solution will make a world of difference in our ability to continue providing vital services, such as heating, cooling and medical care, without interruption.”
You can see the rest of the funded projects and their grant amounts here.
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