The recent Metro Vancouver Regional Homelessness Task Force Report highlights the complexity of homelessness and reminds us that partnerships are key to addressing the issue in British Columbia.

New mandatory qualification requirements for local government building and plumbing officials have been brought into force to support greater consistency in how the BC Building Code is interpreted, applied and enforced.

Minister Responsible for Housing Rich Coleman has issued the following statement in response to the release of the Metro Vancouver Regional Homelessness Task Force Report:

Individuals, seniors and families now have a new place to call home in Kelowna, with the official opening of an affordable apartment complex at Central Green.

People who are homeless or at risk of homelessness will soon have increased access to services, shelter spaces and housing options in Maple Ridge.

A new affordable housing project in Chilliwack has taken another step forward, with a groundbreaking ceremony taking place for the 80-unit development at 45603 Yale Rd.

People in need of a safe, warm place to stay, especially during the cold and wet winter months, will soon have access to a new 40-bed shelter in Surrey.

First-time homebuyers are taking advantage of the new BC Home Owner Mortgage and Equity Partnership program, as more than $1.1 million in loans has been conditionally approved since applications opened on Jan. 16, 2017.

As of Jan. 16, 2017, British Columbians looking to purchase their first home can apply to the B.C. Home Owner Mortgage and Equity Partnership program, which helps first-time homebuyers create secure and stable futures for their families through home ownership.