The province has announced new “recovery-oriented” housing for Victoria through a partnership with the city and the Victoria Cool Aid Society. Known as Johnson Manor, the housing site at 1153 Johnson St. is owned and operated by Cool Aid. The new housing project will include 20 self-contained units in substance-free surroundings for people who have completed early-stage recovery and are ready to prepare for independent living.
The new residents are expected to move in by early spring 2026. According to the province, residents will need a minimum of 60 days of sobriety, post-detox and treatment. The housing is for those without a fixed address. The new recovery housing project is expected to free up supportive housing spaces.
Mayor Marianne Alto said that the city has heard from the community that there is a lack of “dry” housing for people, and that these new downtown homes will play a “critical role” post-treatment.
“This collaboration between the city and the province will help create more positive flow in our housing continuum and support vulnerable residents as they move from homelessness to recovery after detox,” said Alto. “This partnership illustrates how, working together, we are creating a positive pathway to provide opportunity and housing for everyone.”
The cost of the project will be shared between the province and the city, with BC Housing providing $1.2 million in operating funding over three years.
The city will provide almost $590,000 over the same period towards the facility’s operations, in addition to $250,000 in capital funding for building improvements.
Johnson Manor, the province says, will help residents “embrace an abstinence-based lifestyle.” It will include access to supports such as harm-reduction information, peer-supported coaching and referrals to other services.
“Adding recovery housing to Cool Aid’s housing continuum is a major strategic priority and a housing model that we have been working toward for several years,” said Angela Moran, director of housing and shelters with Cool Aid.
“We are thrilled that the city and the province are in alignment with this vision. Our shared commitment will provide lasting after-care for people who are at a critical stage in their recovery journey.”
BC Housing will be notifying the surrounding community while the property renovations are underway.
Letters are being provided to neighbours and stakeholders outlining how the facility will operate and who to contact with any questions or concerns.
Read more at: https://vicnews.com/2025/11/19/dry-recovery-oriented-housing-coming-to-victoria/