Vancouver Chinatown seniors’ residence bought by province to protect affordable housing

The B.C. government says it is helping ensure seniors living at an affordable housing complex in Chinatown can continue to do so, as the province says it bought the area’s Harmony House.

According to a news release from the Ministry of Housing, the province has partnered with S.U.C.C.E.S.S. to buy the 33-unit spot to prevent “much-needed affordable housing from being lost to the private market.”

The strata units will be owned by S.U.C.C.E.S.S., which will also continue to operate the building.

“We’re pleased to help ensure Harmony House residents can age in place in these units and continue to access the assisted-living services from S.U.C.C.E.S.S. that enhance their wellness, independence, and quality of life in the community,” Queenie Choo, the CEO of the association, said.

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Minister of Housing Ravi Kahlon adds that this is a step toward protecting housing that is already in place and to “keep our communities whole.”

“By purchasing these 33 homes we are ensuring that seniors in Vancouver continue to have access to an affordable place to live and are able to stay in the community they call home, close to loved ones and the services they rely on,” he said.

The building consists of one-bedroom and studio units, along with a shared patio space, and is located at 588 Shanghai Alley.

“There’s a significant need to build and preserve more affordable and accessible homes for seniors in the province,” Harwinder Sandhu, the parliamentary secretary for Seniors’ Services and Long-Term Care, said.

“The purchase of the Harmony House in Vancouver Chinatown demonstrates our government’s understanding that seniors want to live in their desired community that serves their specific cultural and linguistic needs, which are so important to their happiness and well-being.”

Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim adds that he is thankful the building will continue to be used for seniors.

“I am incredibly pleased that those who have contributed so immensely to our society can now stay living in their homes and neighbourhood without the worry of future sale or redevelopment,” he said.

The building was bought for about $16.4 million and was purchased through BC Housing.