VANCOUVER Coastal Health on Wednesday announced health-care services will be provided within the largest social housing site in the Downtown Eastside of Vancouver.
VCH will occupy the first two floors of the building and will be moving a number of services into the 50,000 square-foot space. The interconnected programs and services provided under one roof include:
- adult mental health and substance use care;
- primary care;
- Home Health services; and
- an eye clinic.
This new site would move services from Pender and Heatley community health centres to the new, central location to facilitate easy access for eligible clients (each program has its own eligibility criteria). Providers will be able to offer team-based care at one site, resulting in enhanced coordination and convenience for clients.
The health-care centre, at 38 West Hastings Street, just east of the Woodwards complex, is being renovated in partnership with the Vancouver Chinatown Foundation and BC Housing. The community health centre is currently under construction with an anticipated opening for health-care services in early 2026.
The housing portion, Bob & Michael’s Place, opened in June 2024 and provides 231 below market homes that are helping more people find a place to live that they can afford. Of the homes, 111 offer rents at the Housing Income Limits rates, and 120 are supportive homes with rents at shelter rates. Residents also have access to the unique Community Partnerships Program that connects local organizations with residents to offer opportunities and resources in wellness, life skills and mentoring.
The 10-storey building features a diverse range of units, including micro and studio suites, as well as one- and two-bedroom apartments. The project aims to provide tenants with a home that meets their budget, while supporting their wellness. More information is available online on how to apply for housing.
