New affordable seniors’ homes are under construction at Derby Manor, to provide 122 seniors with independent living and access to supports they need to live healthy and dignified lives.

“Seniors are living longer, healthier lives and the B.C. government is committed to promoting their independence through the creation of new affordable, supportive homes,” said Rich Coleman, Minister of Natural Gas Development and Minister Responsible for Housing. “When complete, Derby Manor will provide comfortable homes with vital supports in an environment that also meets their social and recreational needs.”

Residents will have access to lounge areas, a spacious dining room and access to outdoor amenities space and patio areas. The grounds are complete with gardening areas and walking paths. Hospitality and support services include two daily meals and snacks, light housekeeping, laundry services, social and recreational activities and 24/7 on-site emergency response.

“Seniors want to maintain an independent lifestyle by having their own apartments and they want ready access to additional services when they need it,” said Burnaby North MLA Richard T. Lee. “This project will allow seniors to age in place in their home community near family and friends.”

The B.C. government is arranging up to $29.3 million in construction financing. The City of Burnaby will provide over $1 million through the Community Benefit Bonus Housing Fund. The George Derby Care Society provided the land valued at $3.5 million.

“Burnaby is proud to be a diverse and welcoming community that is focused on meeting the needs of all of its citizens in every stage of life,” said Derek Corrigan, mayor, City of Burnaby. “We are proud to be adding yet another facility to the many valuable city services and amenities focused on ensuring that Burnaby seniors can live independently, affordably and comfortably in their chosen home.”

The new building, located at 8601 16th Ave. in Burnaby, will consist of 95 one-bedroom suites, 14 one-bedroom plus den suites and 13 two-bedroom suites. Derby Manor will be an addition to the existing campus of care site at George Derby Centre, providing 300-units of long-term and specialized care. The George Derby Care Society will own and manage the new seniors’ development.

“In our vision for Derby Manor, we wanted to provide an integrated model of housing and care in one village, particularly with a focus on wellness and healthy lifestyles,” said Joanne Reid, board chair, George Derby Care Society. “Seniors have told us that there is a need for this kind of housing within the Burnaby community and we are excited to be able to meet this need with our provincial and municipal partners.”

Construction is estimated to be complete by spring 2017.

Quick Facts:

• Since 2001, the B.C. government has invested $4.4 billion to provide affordable housing for low-income individuals, seniors and families.
• This year, more than 102,500 B.C. households will benefit from provincial social housing programs and services.
• Last year, the B.C. government invested over $17 million to provide subsidized housing and rent supplements for more than 6,700 households in Burnaby. This includes providing support for more than 3,800 senior households and almost 2,400 family households.
• The George Derby Care Society is a non-profit community-based organization, governed by a volunteer board of directors. The society owns and operates the George Derby Centre and is fully accredited by the Canadian Council on Health Services Accreditation.

  Learn More:

For more information on affordable housing programs and the province’s efforts to end

homelessness in B.C., please visit: www.housingmattersbc.ca/factsheets.html

and here: www.bchousing.org

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