One of Vancouver’s largest-ever social housing projects will soon break ground thanks to a unique partnership between the Government of Canada, Government of British Columbia, the City of Vancouver, and the Vancouver Chinatown Foundation.
Located at 58 West Hastings St. in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside, the 10-storey project will provide a mix of supportive and affordable housing for people experiencing homelessness and low-income families. This project will have 120 supportive housing units, and will safely house over 230 individuals and families, focusing on the most vulnerable.
The project is receiving $45.8 million from the federal government and $33.6 million from BC Housing.
Kennedy Stewart, Mayor of Vancouver, announced that the City of Vancouver is providing the land through a 99-year land lease. This project was initiated and developed by the Vancouver Chinatown Foundation which is contributing $30 million through a community fundraising campaign.
“This extraordinary project will make a huge difference for our community and all who will call it home. It’s another great example of how we’re pulling together to tackle the housing crisis. A very special thanks to Carol Lee and the Vancouver Chinatown Foundation for whom this project has been a labour of love. This project shows just what can happen when the community leads and governments invest,” said Stewart.
The innovative project will include a new 48,500 square foot integrated health centre developed and operated by Vancouver Coastal Health. This facility will improve healthcare delivery in the neighborhood and provide easy access to a broad-spectrum of services, including for those in need of specialized mental health and addiction issues, home health, and seniors care.
“Vancouver Chinatown Foundation is excited to begin construction on this urgently-needed social housing project after years of careful planning and fundraising. In partnership with the federal, provincial and local governments we are proud to be creating a safe and welcoming space where residents have not only a roof over their heads but are part of a community with healthcare and other services,” said Carol Lee, Vancouver Chinatown Foundation.
