A new Centre for Well-being is coming to the heart of Colwood.
Since 1968, Pacific Centre Family Services Association (PCFSA) has been promoting dignity and quality of life for families and individuals across Greater Victoria, especially on the West Shore, through education, counselling and creative programming. In order to meet the demands of rapid growth in our community, PCFSA is working on plans for a new Centre for Well-Being on Goldstream Avenue.
The Centre for Well-Being will provide 15,000 square feet of program space, all based on Trauma-Informed design for service excellence. PCFSA will occupy the second floor and provide 7,200 square feet of street level space for rent by other health and wellness professionals.
Also proposed are 104 units of affordable housing for low-income adults, through the Greater Victoria Housing Society. Construction is expected to begin in summer 2017, with completion projected for spring 2019.
The two-acre property backs directly onto the West Shore Child, Youth and Family Centre on Wale Road, which is where PCFSA currently delivers services from. The new site features established chestnut and apple trees that create a tranquil atmosphere for the new centre.
“We’re going to create a wellness hub that’s a really therapeutic environment,” said PCFSA Executive Director Mitzi Dean.
In addition to providing space for crucial wellness services that support the health of our community, the project is a significant development for Colwood and the West Shore, and will continue the revitalization of the heart of Colwood. The Centre for Well-Being will be one of several new developments in the area, along with the new Holiday Inn Express & Suites, the Rexall and Royal Bank Building at Goldstream and Sooke Roads and plans for new development activity at the Colwood Corners development.
“The City of Colwood is excited that Pacific Centre Family Services Association has purchased land to build a facility in our community. We have supported their youth programs for over 30 years and see how effective and cost saving their service is," says Councillor Cynthia Day of the City of Colwood. “Knowing the high level of need, waiting lists for child and family counselling, and the lack of counselling offices, we understand the need for more community-based options for children and families in need.”
While this centre is being supported with funds from the sale of another building, this sale will not cover the cost of the whole project. PCFSA has launched a campaign to raise funds through donations and in kind contributions. Funding is being sought from all levels of government, businesses, foundations and the public. If you or your organization would like to be involved in supporting wellness on the West Shore, please contact Mitzi Dean at 250.886.2481.
