The 13-storey St. Vincent’s Heather long-term care home in Vancouver is in the procurement phase with construction expected to start in fall 2025.

“As people age, they want to know they will have access to the right care services that will allow them to stay healthy, active and safe in their community,” said Adrian Dix, minister of Health. “St. Vincent’s Heather will offer vital long-term care for seniors and wraparound services that will support their happiness and well-being in a home designed to meet their needs. This includes culturally safe living spaces and services for Indigenous Elders, such as a sacred space for smudging ceremonies, with access to traditional medicine gardens for spiritual ceremonies.”

St. Vincent’s Heather will be built on the former site of St. Vincent’s Hospital, which served the Vancouver community for 65 years. Providence Health Care, in partnership with the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Vancouver, is contributing the land to build the 240-bed long-term care home that will replace other beds at aging Providence care homes.

The facility will include 20 “households” that will accommodate 12 residents, each in single-bed rooms, and include the social and recreational spaces found in a typical home, such as a living room, dining room and activity space. Every room will have a wheelchair-accessible ensuite bathroom. Some specially designed suites with connecting doors will allow couples and families to remain together.

The care home will include community spaces on the main floor, allowing residents, families, visitors and staff to access recreational, social and health services. These spaces will include: a community hall; café; non-denominational sacred space for worship, reflection and spiritual practice, including Indigenous ceremonial practices; creative, exercise and therapy space; hairdressing services; a 37-space child care centre; and dental and primary-care services.