Officially underway is a new housing establishment aimed at helping Nanaimo's homeless. The Salvation Army New Hope Centre is one of 12 transitional housing developments being built across the province as a result of the Premier's Task Force on Homelessness, Mental Illness and Addictions.

Located downtown next to The Salvation Army's Community and Family Services Centre, New Hope Centre will provide those in need with tools, skills and support to improve their lives and regain their independence. It will house a total of 45 beds, 29 of which can be used as emergency crisis or shelter beds along with 16 self-contained studio units for longer-term transition and supportive housing.

The Salvation Army is the largest non-governmental social service agency in the province.