The opening marks a significant step in addressing the growing need of shelter supports for individuals experiencing homelessness in the region. The development of Pathways has been a true community effort, with contributions from ARPA Investments (ARPA), the City of Kamloops, BC Housing, the Access Hub Leadership Group, and other key collaborative partners, coming together to create this vital resource for the North Shore community.
The name “Pathways” reflects the belief that there are multiple routes leading to stability, well-being, and long-term housing. Each individual experiencing homelessness has a unique journey, and Pathways aims to offer a range of supports that are tailored to their needs, including access to shelter, health care, and other community resources.
Pathways offers 44 beds and a range of services, including cultural programming, meals provision, goal planning support, life skills training, access to washroom and shower facilities, referrals to support groups, storage for personal belongings, and access to medical services through the ASK Wellness Mobile Health Clinic, powered by TELUS Health, as well as external health services.
The City of Kamloops granted a Temporary Use Permit (TUP) for the site on November 26, 2024. Since then, ARPA, along with BC Housing, the City of Kamloops, and ASK Wellness Society, have worked diligently to renovate the former RV sales building and garage warehouse into a fully functioning 24/7 shelter and access hub.
On January 24, 2025, Pathways hosted an interagency soft opening to honour the individuals and organizations that made the renovations and opening of Pathways possible. Bob Hughes, Executive Officer of ASK Wellness Society, highlighted the incredible effort of ARPA’s team in transforming the space in only two months, saying, “The dedication of Joshua and Parm, along with the expertise of Project Superintendent, Cam, was exceptional. The collaboration with ASK Wellness Society’s Property Services and Maintenance staff was a key factor in this project’s success.”
The event featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony with attendees that included Access Hub Leadership members, representatives from BC Housing, the City of Kamloops, ARPA, and ASK Wellness Society, as well as other partners, such as the Kamloops Aboriginal Friendship Society (KAFS), who provided the opening blessing.
The vision for Pathways was shaped through a strong commitment to community collaboration. The Access Hub Leadership Group, consisting of representatives from social service organizations, Indigenous partners, healthcare providers, and housing advocates, played a key role in developing the program model. Their efforts ensured that Pathways was built upon the priorities of dignity, inclusivity, and long-term support for individuals experiencing homelessness, along with a key focus on community safety and neighbourhood integration.
Tangie Genshorek, Access Hub team member, A Way Home Kamloops Executive Director and North Shore resident, said the committee has been working for “literally years” to establish a shelter on the north shore.
“It’s amazing, and it's relieving,” Genshorek said.
“It's a really urgent need. There are real safety concerns for our folks who are out on the street. We need a variety of supports. We need a continuum of supports — and this is one of the key pieces of that.”
Pathways is part of the Homeless Encampment Action Response Temporary Housing (HEARTH) program funding, a provincial initiative aimed at providing immediate housing solutions to those experiencing homelessness. The shelter directly responds to the urgent demand for housing and support services in Kamloops.
The RCMP, Kamloops Fire Rescue, and Community Services are committed to maintaining the safety and well-being of both program participants within Pathways and the surrounding neighbourhood. To facilitate Pathways integration into the North Shore community, ASK Wellness Society has prioritized engagement through outreach with local businesses, a Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) analysis by the RCMP, and ongoing dialogue with neighbouring residents and community partners. Scheduled recurring meetings to address concerns from neighbouring businesses and residents will be prioritized during the first few months of operations.
Hughes also emphasized the importance of Pathways being the connection between ASK Wellness Society’s street outreach services and the a broad range of housing programs. “Pathways represents an important connection that enhances safety and dignity for those in need,” he said. “With this new facility, we continue our mission to empower individuals and contribute to a healthier community.”
Beyond simply offering a place to stay, Pathways is designed to be a steppingstone towards the possibility of permanent housing and longer-term stability. By integrating health, housing, and community services, the aim is to create meaningful and lasting impacts for individuals facing homelessness, particularly to individuals on the North Shore of Kamloops where the need is evident. The opening of Pathways marks a significant step in ASK Wellness Society’s ongoing commitment to providing safe, supportive housing solutions for those who need it most.
