The long-term future of Bulterys House in Dawson Creek remains uncertain, despite assurances from Northern Health that it will continue funding the patient accommodation facility through the end of 2026.
The health authority says efforts are ongoing to find a sustainable model for the service.
Northern Health has supported Bulterys House since 2022, providing grants to help cover the cost of low-cost housing for patients across northeastern B.C.
The facility, operated by South Peace Health Services Society in partnership with Dawson Creek Society for Community Living, offers accommodation for people who must travel long distances for medical services
Maternity, surgical, and other medical needs account for most stays, with some patients traveling from as far as Fort Nelson.
However, the province’s Ministry of Health informed Northern Health in January 2025 that it would no longer fund grants to the society.
Northern Health says it has extended funding for Bulterys House until December 31, 2026, using its own operational budget to give the society time to develop a long-term, sustainable funding model.
Health officials say they have not indicated whether funding will continue beyond that date.
Under its current model, the facility is operating at 28 per cent occupancy in the 2025–26 fiscal year although that marks an increase from 11 per cent the previous year.
Chris Norbury, the President of the South Peace Health Services Society said the house was never intended to turn a profit. Norbury said the intention was always to have the Ministry of Health fund the facility.
The South Peace Health Services Society came up with a five-year business plan and presented it to Northern Health. Norbury said, “We came up with the plan to service the region in its current form. Northern Health wants it to be self-sustaining and that was never the plan.”
The South Peace Health Service Society is a non-profit, volunteer-based operation. Norbury said, “We are just trying to assist the region in accessing quality health care.”
Bulterys House first opened in March 2023 and provides six bedrooms for patients and families at a cost of about $30 per night. It is located about a block from the hospital and includes shared amenities such as a kitchen, lounge, and laundry facilities.
Denae Hunter, Program Director for Bulterys House said, many patients came to the facility during some of the most challenging and vulnerable times in their lives.
“This decision isn’t just disappointing. It’s wrong. And I won’t be quiet about it. Because when you’ve looked people in the eyes during those moments, you don’t stay silent when the support they depend on is taken away,” said Hunter.
The South Peace Health Services Society was formed by local mayors and regional district representatives.
“Year-to-date, we’ve supported 551 people and counting. Some see numbers. I don’t. I see faces, stories, and lives that matter and I remember every one of them,” said Hunter.
Northern Health says it will continue working with the society to identify a funding solution for 2027 and beyond.
“Please stand up, speak out, and help us save Bulterys House,” said Hunter.