Islanders Working Against Violence (IWAV) announced today that it has a conditional accepted purchase offer on the property at 210 Norton Rd., marking a significant step toward addressing the critical need for affordable rental housing on Salt Spring Island.
IWAV said in a media release that it has until early December to raise the funds needed to complete the purchase in January.
“Acquiring the property is part of IWAV’s long-term strategy to expand affordable housing, aligning with its purpose and strategic plan to create safe, supportive communities free from poverty, violence and abuse,” it said.
IWAV, which provides housing and anti-violence services across the Southern Gulf Islands, is experienced in developing affordable housing. The not-for-profit society currently operates a Transition House, second-stage housing at The Cedars, and developed most of the 74 units of affordable housing it operates at 132 Croftonbrook Rd.
The Norton Road property already has zoning for 26 units of affordable housing — for a project initiated several years ago by then-owners Norm and Diane Elliott — and is ideally located near grocery stores, healthcare services, schools and transit.
“This is exactly the type of opportunity our community needs,” said Alicia Herbert, executive director of IWAV. “With Norton Road, we can build on our success at Croftonbrook to create more housing that truly meets the needs of our community.”
According to the real estate listing, the property is 12 acres in size, with a 2,700-square-foot home built in 2003. Listing price is $2.85 million.
IWAV said that in the coming weeks its team will reach out to community members, partners and supporters to help meet the fundraising target, which was not specified in the media release.
“Safe, affordable housing is urgently needed here and across the Southern Gulf Islands. By coming together to meet this goal, we can create lasting change for women, children and families,” Herbert added.
Updates will be shared on IWAV’s website, social media channels and in local media.