Women and children at risk of or leaving violence have access to more safe, secure spaces as 229 new transition and second-stage housing units open on Vancouver Island and in Metro Vancouver.

The federal and provincial governments announced an enhancement to the Canada-BC Housing Benefit (CBCHB) that will provide additional support for survivors of gender-based violence. The federal government is investing nearly $37 million over four years, with the Province of B.C. providing an equal cost match.

New BC Building Code (BCBC) 2024 provisions for adaptable dwellings and seismic design come into effect Monday, March 10, 2025, with adaptable-dwelling requirements being gradually implemented.

From Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada: https://www.canada.ca/en/housing-infrastructure-communities/news/2025/03/the-governments-of-canada-and-british-columbia-sign-an-agreement-to-address-homelessness.html

Youth and young adults experiencing homelessness in Kamloops now have access to 39 new homes with supports through the opening of Katherine’s Place.

Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs, has released the following statement about supportive housing in Richmond: 

People will have more affordable housing options in their communities with more than 200 supportive homes, shelter spaces, culturally supportive homes and homes for seniors opening or starting construction.

As 337 more affordable rental homes open in Vancouver, new reports are showing positive signs for renters in B.C., including thousands of renters supported through the BC Rent Bank, decreases in rents and record-high rental-home construction starts.