The Strathcona Regional District is celebrating the completion of two new healthcare-focused housing initiatives on the Campbell River Hospital campus.

Just Like Home Lodge and Health Professionals Housing are located together in a purpose-built facility next to the hospital.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held this week.

The 10-unit Just Like Home Lodge will provide a place to stay for patients and caregivers travelling to Campbell River for medical care from communities across Mid and North Vancouver Island, as well as surrounding coastal and remote areas.

The lodge will also welcome guests from First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities.

The facility also includes 20 self-contained suites for healthcare professionals.

The housing will offer short- and longer-term accommodation for people working, training, relocating, or exploring employment opportunities in the region.

SRD Vice-Chair Susan Sinnott says both projects are designed to remove barriers to accessing healthcare and attracting healthcare workers.

The Campbell River Hospital serves 32 communities across the region, meaning the projects are expected to benefit people well beyond Campbell River.

The Campbell River Hospital Foundation and its donors raised more than $2 million toward construction of Just Like Home Lodge.

Health Professionals Housing will begin welcoming residents September 1st, while Just Like Home Lodge will begin welcoming patients and caregivers September 15th.

The facility is owned and operated by the Strathcona Regional District and is located at 541 2nd Avenue in Campbell River.