PEOPLE are settling into their new homes at a 70-unit affordable rental building in East Vancouver that gives priority to single women, and single mothers and their children.
“Global challenges outside our control like high interest rates are making it difficult for everyone to find an affordable place to call home,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing, on Wednesday. “That’s why our government is taking action by making historic public investments in housing, so people who need some extra help, like single mothers and their children, can continue to live in a beautiful world-class city like Vancouver with all the amenities they need right at their doorsteps.”
The Province, through BC Housing, partnered with the YWCA Metro Vancouver (YWCA) and the City of Vancouver to buy the new building at 388 Slocan Street.
The six-storey building features commercial space at ground level and 70 homes – including studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom units – spread over the five storeys above. The homes are situated around an internal courtyard with a rooftop terrace and urban garden space for residents to enjoy. Residents began moving into their new homes in August.
BC Housing owns 34 of the units. The remaining 36 homes and ground-floor commercial space are owned by the YWCA. The YWCA will manage operations for all 70 homes.
Of those 70 homes, 14 units have rents geared to income and are prioritized for single women and single mothers and their children, meeting YWCA Housing’s mandate to provide housing to women and their families. The other 56 homes are available to the public at below-market rates.
Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim said: “We are thrilled to see 388 Slocan Street open its doors, bringing much-needed affordable housing to families and individuals in Vancouver. This is more than just a building – it’s a new chapter for those who will call it home, and a strong signal of what we can accomplish when we work together. We’re committed to building affordable, high-quality housing options that truly reflect the diverse needs of our community, and today, we’re one step closer to that vision.”
Quick Facts:
* The project is a partnership between the Province, the YWCA Metro Vancouver and the City of Vancouver:
– The Province contributed approximately $24 million for the purchase of the building through an Affordable Rental Housing (ARH) Grant.
– The YWCA contributed almost $8 million towards the purchase.
– The City of Vancouver contributed $4 million toward the project through its Community Housing Incentive Program (CHIP).
