Affordable housing announcement includes plans for two new CHCs in the DTES
On January 16, the Province through BC Housing, in partnership with the City of Vancouver and VCH, announced expanded housing and health care options on the DTES. Approximately 450 units of new affordable rental housing will be constructed for low-to-moderate income households including the creation of two new CHCs at two development sites in the DTES.
“Affordable housing is crucial to helping our clients focus on every aspect of their health and safety, including mental health and addictions treatment,” says Bonnie Wilson, Director, Inner City and MH & SU, Vancouver Community. “Every day, our health care providers see the devastating impacts of homelessness and precarious housing on the health and wellness of our clients and community members.”
The Province through BC Housing is committing approximately $83 million for the following four projects:
- 58 W. Hastings St., operated by the Chinatown Foundation
- 23-51 Cordova St., operated by the PHS Community Services Society
- 616 Cordova St., operated by Union Gospel Mission–Women and Families Centre
- 301 E. Hastings St., operator still being determined
“We are particularly excited about the projects at 58 W Hastings and 301 E Hastings, where we will be partnering with the Province through BC Housing, the City of Vancouver and other key community groups, to build two purpose-built community health centres that will be incorporated into these buildings,” explains Wilson.
“I’ve met some incredible, resilient people who live and work in the Downtown Eastside, and heard firsthand how crucial affordable housing is to help them. We know that for too long, people have struggled without the proper supports,” says Judy Darcy, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. “The four projects will help build stronger communities so we can help the most vulnerable people in our community get the hope and healing they need.”
The Province is working in partnership with the City of Vancouver, VCH and four non-profit service providers to ensure the appropriate housing and support services will be made available. Please see the full news release on the provincial government web site.