John Rook out as CEO of Calgary Homeless Foundation

The president and CEO of the Calgary Homeless Foundation has resigned.

John Rook's departure takes effect immediately and comes less than two years after he took over the top job at the agency in 2012.  

The departure comes as the foundation reviews its 10-year plan to end homelessness.

Andrea Ranson of the Homeless Foundation says they are in the midst of updating the ten year plan, which they do every three years.

“Right now for the first time ever we have data from all of the agencies and the shelters so we are able to have a closer look at the characteristics of people who are homeless and what kind of housing and support they need," said Ranson.

"When we drafted the plan we took a lot a look at the U.S. plans and when we updated it in 2011 we had some data but this is the first time we can really take a look at the people that need our help and what's working."

Ranson said the foundation is building 240 housing with support units and the Mustard Seed Tower will open soon.

In a written release, the foundation thanked Rook for his contributions and called him a champion of ending homelessness.

VP to serve as interim CEO

In the meantime, foundation vice-president Gerrad Oishi will serve as temporary CEO.

The Calgary Homeless Foundation leads efforts to implement Calgary's 10-Year Plan to End Homelessness in the city in partnership with governments, social service agencies and the private sector.

Rook's predecessor, Tim Richter, left to head up the Canadian Alliance to End Homelessness.

The search for the new CEO is already underway.