Property purchased for tiny housing project in South Napan
Update: The map has been revised to reflect the subdividing of the property that took place in 2023. The property in question in this story is highlighted in red.
On November 21st there were four meetings at the Napan Hall to explain the plans of Genesis Village of Hope to the community. Genesis is a charity that is seeking to develop a rural compound of up to 50 tiny homes that would allow young people ages 18-30 to have affordable housing in a supportive community that creates an atmosphere to empower them to experience new beginnings, find their God-given purpose and achieve their dreams.
The organization does not currently have an operation in any other province, and is not affiliated with similarly named organizations in New Brunswick (eg: Village of Hope drug rehab in Tracy NB). The first anyone heard of them was when they made a presentation to City Council asking that the City give them some land near French Fort Cove for their project and connect the land with services. The City felt this type of project was not in keeping with the housing incentives that had been providing for high density residential projects, and have since sold the land to a developer who plans to develop 120 units.
But during their presentation to City Council organizers stated they had similar plans in Napan, but did not offer any details. After a real estate transaction in Napan that involved one of the board members of Genesis become known, , Napan residents started asking questions. The property that has been acquired is on the south Napan Road. A resident we spoke with inquired with the planning commission to see if it required rezoning for the purpose of a tiny home community and she was informed rezoning would not be required.
Genesis decided to hold information sessions. They held 4 meetings with up to 50 people at each meeting divided into groups of who met with Genesis spokespeople who answered their questions. There were local people who volunteer with Genesis who were part of the sessions answering questions. After the meeting the common questions and answers were distributed and people who have more questions are urged to contact the organization through their website.
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Why Napan?
Napan is an agricultural community in a rural setting relatively close to amenities.. We are looking for land with a therapeutic feel. We will have an agricultural component as a way to engage our residents with a sense of purpose and stability.
What is the funding structure for the capital and operational requirements?
Private funding, rental income, and various levels of government
Will you be bringing young adults from other provinces?
Adults with roots in this area will have priority in our intake process. Our goal is that the individuals in the program can heal close to home and maintain the connections they have in their home community.
Are there paid staff at Genesis?
Genesis Village of Hope is a charity run by a volunteer board. Project Consultants are compensated as we advance with the project. Staffing capacity will be developed as required and as the project advances.
Who are the residents of Genesis Village of Hope?
Young adults 18 and over who have the capacity to live independently are at risk of being unhoused due to systemic gaps in service. Our project is not for every young person but for those who are a good fit and would benefit from a therapeutic rural environment.
Is this charity for Christians only?
Those wishing to join the Genesis Village of Hope Community do not have to be Christian to access housing at Genesis Village of Hope. We are committed to walking with each residence on their journeys whatever those may be.
Can people volunteer?
Yes if you are interested in volunteering or getting involved please reach out via our website.
How long can your residents stay?
As long as they would like there will be no established timeline
Will residents be charged rent?
Yes rent will be calculated at 30% of their individual gross income even it is social assistance
Why was the project kept a secret?
Our organization has been active on social media and has attended various local meetings and presented to various groups and also held a summer event and met with various levels of government. We are still in the initial phases of the project. Much of the due diligence for the land started taking place in September 2024. We want to be a good neighbour, address community concerns at this early stage and will continue to communicate with the community as the project advances.
How will emergencies be addressed?
We will have 24-hour support to address any emergency issues. All staff will be trained in non-violent Crisis Intervention to handle emergency situations. The violence and substance abuse will be strictly prohibited on site issues that need to be escalated will be handled by the appropriate authorities.
How will drugs, alcohol and violence be addressed?
Genesis Village of Hope a dry community. Abuse and violence will absolutely be prohibited on the site.
How will residents get around?
Genesis Village of Hope is within a short drive to most amenities. We plan to facilitate active transportation in the milder seasons in addition to providing residents with Transportation through an organizational vehicle or the regional transportation service.
VIDEO: Genesis presents to City Council