Opening 22 new affordable rental homes in Bowser

Helping seniors age in place in independent living rentals

Summary

  • Seniors are moving into 22 new affordable rental homes in Bowser
  • Lighthouse Villa is providing seniors with affordable, stable housing in their community

BOWSER - Affordable rental homes designed for seniors to live independently are open in Bowser, helping them age in place in the community they call home.

"When seniors have stable housing they can afford, it makes their everyday life simpler and more secure," said Christine Boyle, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs. "Market rents often exceed what seniors can afford. That's why we are continuing to add homes across the province, so people have access to housing that meets their needs close to home."

The opening of Lighthouse Villa, the first affordable housing project in the small community of Bowser adds 22 new rental homes for seniors. The idea for Lighthouse Villa was first developed by a team of volunteers and community members passionate about addressing the growing demand for seniors' rental housing.

Homes that support independent seniors

Located at 155 Sundry Rd. (formerly Pitt Road), the single-storey building provides a mix of one-and two-bedroom ground-level units. These include five fully accessible homes with accessible common areas throughout the building, helping residents feel safe, connected and supported in their daily lives.

Located near the village centre with groceries, a café and other amenities nearby, the building is designed to foster a sense of community, while allowing residents to maintain their independence. The building, owned and operated by the Bowser Seniors Housing Society, features a common room for residents to gather and socialize. It also has an on-site building manager.

Affordable homes for seniors with different incomes

The housing is designed to be affordable for seniors with a variety of incomes. Fifteen of the homes are subsidized, with rent set at no more than 30% of household income, with:

  • four homes being deeply subsidized for people with very low incomes earning up to $24,066 a year
  • 11 homes with rent geared to income for households with a gross income of up to $44,000

The seven remaining homes are below market rents, ranging from $1,350 to $1,600 for a one-bedroom home, and $1,750 to $1,850 for two-bedroom homes, for seniors who do not qualify for subsidized housing, but are seeking affordable rental housing in the community.

Project funding

The Province, through BC Housing, contributed $3.5 million for the development through the Community Housing Fund, and is providing approximately $224,000 in annual operating funding.

This work is part of the Province's $19-billion investment in housing to increase supply throughout B.C. Since 2017, more than 95,000 homes have been delivered or are underway, including in the Oceanside region of Vancouver Island. These include 6,200 homes specifically for seniors, on top of the thousands of affordable homes being built through the Province's various Building BC programs.

Quotes:

Stephanie McLean, Secretary of State (Seniors), on behalf of Gregor Robertson, federal Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada -

"Our government remains committed to supporting seniors in Bowser and throughout the country, which is why we are investing in projects like Lighthouse Villa. This initiative provides safe, affordable, and accessible housing that helps seniors maintain their independence and well-being. Congratulations and welcome to the new residents."

Susie Chant, parliamentary secretary for seniors' services and long-term care -

"Without local options, seniors often risk leaving their community, and face increased isolation. Affordable, accessible housing that serves different income levels and supports aging in place is key to the well-being and quality of life for seniors."

Josie Osborne, MLA for Mid Island-Pacific Rim -

"With market rents often out of reach for many seniors, these 22 new affordable, accessible homes in Bowser will provide the stability, dignity and independence people deserve. This project is a testament to the perseverance and leadership of the Bowser Seniors Housing Society, whose commitment over many years has made this possible. Their dedication, along with the support of partners and community members, has helped ensure that seniors can continue to live in the community they helped build."

Carol Cannon, project chair and director, Bowser Seniors Housing Society -

"We are incredibly grateful for the generous support of CMHC, BC Housing and our community in making Lighthouse Villa a reality. This project will provide seniors with a welcoming, comfortable and affordable place to call home."

Deborah Prince, resident of Lighthouse Villa -

"Lighthouse Villa is so much more than just a place to live. It's a place where I feel safe, where I am surrounded by a warm and caring community, and where I am treated with dignity and respect. There is a real sense of belonging here that brings comfort and peace of mind. I am deeply grateful to the Bowser Seniors Housing Society for creating a home for me and 21 other families."

Quick Facts:

  • The Government of Canada, through the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), contributed $6.3 million through the Affordable Housing Fund.
  • Federal and provincial governments provided $858,000 in joint funding through the Canada-British Columbia Bilateral Agreement under the National Housing Strategy.
  • The Province provided the land, valued at approximately $740,000.
  • The community of Bowser, led by volunteer board members and their fundraising efforts, raised more than $500,000 toward the construction of Lighthouse Villa.

Learn More:

 

Contacts
Ministry of Housing and Municipal Affairs
Media Relations
236 478-0251
BC Housing
Media Relations
[email protected]
Bowser Seniors Housing Society
Media Relations
[email protected]
Renée LeBlanc Proctor
Office of the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure
[email protected]
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
Media Relations
[email protected]