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Cranbrook, BC (September 18, 2025) – Ahead of the opening of BC Housing’s new ‘Step Beyond’ shelter on 16th Avenue North, local partners undertook early actions to support both individuals experiencing homelessness and the surrounding neighbours. These measures, first reported on August 15, 2025, will continue as operations at the shelter are now underway.

Drawing from the experience of other communities where shelters have opened, local partners are taking early and continued action to ensure the success of ‘Step Beyond’ for people and the surrounding community.

The Step Beyond working group includes BC Housing, Cranbrook Community Connections Society of Southeast BC (CCS), other local service providers, Indigenous partners, Interior Health, local police, firefighters, and the City of Cranbrook. The group will focus on identifying and responding to issues quickly, strengthening partnerships, and supporting the safety and wellbeing of the entire community.

The group first met in mid-July and continues to meet regularly as the shelter became operational. By working together through a coordinated approach, these partners aim to ensure that community safety and support remain top priorities.

“Change usually brings new challenges, but by bringing key partners together ahead of time, we’re able to enhance our capacity for joint problem-solving and shared accountability,” said Marcel Germer, Social Development Coordinator. “We want to make sure this transition is smooth for everyone.”

To help the community understand who to call and when to call when it comes to daily operations or any other inquiries about the shelter, an information sheet has been created. You can also find this information along with other resources online @ https://cranbrook.ca/our-city/city-departments/corporate-services-1/community-safety-and-wellbeing.