Youth transitioning out of foster care, and young mothers in New Westminster are closer to having a safe, stable place to live as construction starts on a new 89-home development in the community.

“Every young person deserves a safe place to call home, especially those transitioning out of foster care, and young mothers,” said Christine Boyle, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs. “By providing youth and mothers with stable housing, we’re helping them build a strong foundation for the future and empowering them to lead healthy, independent lives.”

Located at 1923 and 1927 Marine Way, the project will provide a mix of affordable studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom rental homes, with a primary focus on youth leaving care. Monthly rents will range from approximately $445 to approximately $2,550, depending on unit size and the income of residents. These homes will also be open to mothers in challenging life situations, including those who are:

• being reunited with children;
• at risk of losing their children to the child welfare system;
• leaving violence; and
• former youth in care who are now mothers.

Aunt Leah's Foundation, an experienced housing provider for youth and young mothers in the region, will be the owner and operator of this project. Residents will have access to the programs offered at Aunt Leah's Society Outreach Centre, located near the site. These include life skills training, education, access to a food bank, as well as cooking programs.

“It’s so important to have an organization like Aunt Leah’s lead the way so that more youth and moms can benefit from stable housing,” said Jodie Wickens, Minister of Children and Family Development. “This is part of our government’s commitment to support youth as they transition from care into independence and a good future.”

These homes are expected to be complete by summer 2027 and will offer a stable and inclusive environment that will help residents feel safe and supported as they take their next steps and transition to independence.

“We are grateful to the Province of British Columbia for investing in youth in our community,” said Jacqueline Dupuis, executive director, Aunt Leah’s Properties. “These homes will help provide to young people a foundation on which to build brighter futures, and this project would not be possible without strong partnerships with government and the community.”

The Province, through BC Housing, is providing more than $14 million to the development through the Community Housing Fund, as well as annual operating funding.

These homes are part of a $19-billion housing investment by the B.C. government. Since 2017, the B.C. government has more than 93,600 homes delivered or underway throughout the province, including more than 700 homes in New Westminster.

Quotes:

Raj Chouhan, MLA for Burnaby-New Westminster –

“Youth aging out of the care system face unique challenges. Through Building BC, we’re investing in purpose-built homes, so that British Columbians, including youth and young mothers at risk of homelessness, have access to the housing they need. Organizations like Aunt Leah’s Properties are helping us deliver the kinds of homes that change lives and prevent homelessness before it starts.”

Jennifer Whiteside, MLA for New Westminster –

“Youth aging out of care and mothers at risk of homelessness deserve to have a stable home and a real chance at success. These new homes will make a lasting difference in New Westminster, providing stable housing for mothers in need, supporting family unification and providing a solid foundation for youth transitioning from foster care. These homes offer them the security and dignity they deserve, to move forward and thrive.”

Learn More:

To learn more about government’s new Homes for People action plan, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023HOUS0019-000436

To learn about the steps the Province is taking to tackle the housing crisis and deliver affordable homes for British Columbians, visit: https://strongerbc.gov.bc.ca/housing/

A map showing the location of all announced provincially funded housing projects in B.C. is available online here: https://www.bchousing.org/projects-partners/Building-BC/homes-for-BC

To learn how BC Housing is helping to build strong, inclusive communities, visit: https://www.bchousing.org/podcast