The Mustard Seed Solace Shelter


Solace Shelter

(UPDATED May 25, 2026)

Welcome to the Information Hub for The Mustard Seed Solace Shelter

The Mustard Seed Solace Shelter, a new year-round 40-bed facility at 1055 Glenfair Drive, is currently under development in Kamloops. Created in partnership with BC Housing and the City of Kamloops, this shelter is designed to support seniors and older adults who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

With The Mustard Seed selected as the shelter operator by BC Housing, the site will provide compassionate care and essential services tailored to older residents. Construction began in late 2025, and the shelter is on track to open in Fall 2026.

This page will be your source for updates as we move closer to opening day. Stay connected to follow progress, learn more about the services offered, and see how this project is making a difference in our community.

Project Overview

The Solace Shelter will operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, year-round. It will be staffed at all times and designed with aging and accessibility in mind. This includes traditional seniors as well as individuals facing premature aging due to poverty, trauma, and prolonged exposure to the elements.

Once open, the shelter will offer:

  • Safe and secure sleeping spaces
  • Daily meals
  • Showers, laundry, and hygiene services
  • Personalized case planning
  • Referrals to health care, housing, and community services
  • A trauma-informed environment with trained staff
  • Site safety supported by cameras, regular patrols, and coordination with local police

The Mustard Seed’s role is to provide shelter operations and support services.


Why Solace?
Shelters are an important first step for people who are transitioning out of homelessness. People without access to basic shelter must focus solely on survival. After a person can access a warm bed, washrooms and meals, they are in a much better position to improve their housing situation and well-being.

The Solace Shelter is in response to the increase of seniors and older adults experiencing or at risk of homelessness in Kamloops. According to the 2024 Point-in-Time Homeless Count (over a 24-hour period), over 300 people were reported as experiencing homelessness in Kamloops. Of these:

  • Nearly 50% are 45 years or older, with many who need age-appropriate supports
  • 51% identified as having either an illness or medical condition
  • 53% said they have a physical mobility challenge
  • 39% identified as having challenges related to their senses, such as sight or hearing.
  • 68% have always lived in Kamloops or lived here for 5 or more years

Since 2021, there has been a 26% increase in senior’s experiencing homelessness in Kamloops.


Community Engagement

Since the shelter was announced in June 2024, The Mustard Seed and BC Housing have actively engaged with neighbours and the wider community. We will continue to share project updates and opportunities for community engagement.

We remain committed to transparent, ongoing communication and welcome ideas and feedback on how to integrate Solace Shelter into the fabric of the neighbourhood.


Contact Us


Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is Solace Shelter?

    Solace Shelter will be a 40-bed, year-round facility focused on supporting older adults and seniors who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness. It will provide safe emergency shelter along with individualized supports to help guests stabilize, access essential services, and transition toward permanent housing.


  • Why is the shelter being built?

    Kamloops is experiencing a growing number of older adults and seniors facing homelessness—many with complex health and mobility challenges. Solace Shelter is being developed to meet this urgent need, reduce outdoor encampments, and provide safer, age-appropriate supports for some of the city’s most vulnerable residents.

    By offering shelter, stability, and connection to services, Solace will support individual wellness and contribute to a safer, healthier community for all.

  • Why was The Mustard Seed selected as the operator?

    The Mustard Seed was selected by BC Housing because of its proven experience operating shelters and support services across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and British Columbia. In Kamloops, The Mustard Seed already operates the West End Shelter, Women’s Harbour House, Men’s Recovery Program, and a Health & Wellness Centre, demonstrating a strong track record of compassionate, community-based care.

  • Will this shelter only be for seniors 55+?

    While Solace is designed with seniors in mind, it will also support individuals under 55 who are experiencing premature aging or complex health challenges related to long-term homelessness. Many people in their 40s and 50s face health conditions typically seen in much older adults due to the impacts of trauma, poverty, and prolonged exposure to the elements.

  • Will the shelter allow substance use?

    Substance use will not be permitted on shelter property. However, guests will not be turned away solely for being under the influence. If a guest arrives intoxicated but can understand and agree to the shelter’s expectations, they will be welcomed.

    While Solace is not a recovery facility, staff are trained in harm reduction and trauma-informed care, and will connect guests to mental health and addiction supports when needed. The shelter will also offer substance-free spaces to support community and safety for those who do not use substances.

  • How will safety and security be handled?

    The safety of shelter guests, staff, and the surrounding community is a top priority. Solace Shelter will have a range of safety and security measures in place, including:

    • 24/7 on-site staff trained in crisis prevention, de-escalation, and trauma-informed care
    • Controlled entry, security cameras, and exterior lighting
    • A fully fenced site with designated indoor and outdoor spaces for registered guests
    • Regular maintenance and monitoring to keep the property clean and respectful

    The Mustard Seed will build strong relationships with local law enforcement, City Community Services, and nearby residents to proactively address concerns and ensure smooth integration into the neighbourhood.

  • Will I still get my reserved mat?

    Details around the reservation process are still being finalized, but the goal is to create a consistent, age-appropriate environment that prioritizes safety, stability, and fairness for all shelter guests. Returning guests who meet shelter expectations may be eligible for a reserved space, depending on availability.

  • Who is responsible for the shelter property?

    The Mustard Seed is responsible for managing and maintaining the shelter property at 1055 Glenfair Drive. This includes day-to-day operations, guest support, site cleanliness, and safety protocols.

    The Mustard Seed will work closely with BC Housing, the City of Kamloops, local law enforcement, and community partners to address any concerns and ensure the site is well-integrated into the neighbourhood.

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