B.C. government announces new housing for Vancouver seniors

Senior citizens in Vancouver now have increased housing options, as the B.C. government has announced 58 new “affordable” rental homes in the city.

These homes are opening at 710 East 19th Avenue on the Fraser Street corridor according to a news release from the province. It explains the North Arm Housing Co-operative is a six-storey building made up of both studio and one-bedroom apartments. The apartments are intended to go to “seniors with low or moderate incomes.”

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These new homes come by way of a $10.8 million grant from BC Housing — part of a previous overarching $19 billion grant from the B.C. government — and Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon says this investment shows the province is “increasing housing stock faster than ever to tackle the housing crisis.”

“This new seniors’ co-op building is an example of the types of housing options that people need,” he said. “With this investment, we are ensuring that the building continues to benefit seniors by providing ongoing affordable housing under the co-operative model, in the community they know with friends, family, and services they rely on.”

Opening 58 new homes with @MableElmore under a co-operative model that secures residents ongoing affordable housing with below market rates.

We know there is more work to do – but today we ensured 58+ more seniors in Vancouver have increased access to housing in their community. pic.twitter.com/na3JdDnGmP

— Ravi Kahlon (@KahlonRav) September 11, 2023

The building also contains a senior care society operating on the main floor — featuring a kitchen, some office space, and a multipurpose space.

Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim says the city is proud to work towards building more homes for seniors, adding it will “always advocate for more housing at every opportunity.”

“We know seniors need access to social connection, community, and a safe way to maintain their independence. It is living spaces like the North Arm Housing Co-op that offer seniors affordable stability with the supports they need,” he said.

The Community Land Trust-managed building is now open, but the government didn’t specify whether or not these units are still available to seniors looking for housing.