A house gives us safety and shelter, but feeling connected to the place where we make a home is what makes life better. Tenant engagement programs at BC Housing managed buildings help people build relationships. They also give tenants a chance to learn new life skills and feel like they belong. These programs include cooking together, youth activities, and tenant-led projects. They show that housing can mean more than the structure.
Creating belonging through engagement
Tenant engagement starts with trust and building real connections. It means creating spaces where people feel welcome and supported.
“I try to bring empathy and fun into everything we do. That’s what helps tenants feel comfortable and excited to join in.”
– Amber Bell, Tenant Engagement Worker
Activities range from craft sessions and outdoor games to unexpected hits like karaoke.
Amber shares about a kids’ craft program. During the session, talk turned to K-Pop Demon Hunters, the viral movie whose songs every kid seems to know. “The kids were so into it that I planned a K-Pop Demon Hunter-themed music bingo and karaoke night—and it was a huge success,” she says.
What started small has grown big. Attendance has gone from a few people to whole buildings joining in. This shows how creativity and shared interests can bring communities together.
Libraries as community connectors
Mobile library visits are a favourite for tenants. This program brings the library right to their building. Tenants can browse and borrow books from the library van without leaving home. These visits also share community services that tenants might not know about or use. After successful programs in Surrey and Richmond, there is hope to expand this service to more buildings and tenants.
Empowering tenants as leaders
One of the most impactful tools for engagement is the Tenant Activity Grant (TAG). These grants give tenants the chance to lead their own projects and bring their ideas to life.
“A tenant created 47 emergency grab-and-go kits for her neighbours after an earthquake preparedness workshop. Kids helped hand them out—it was amazing.”
– Amber Bell, Tenant Engagement Worker
TAG projects can take many forms. For example, tenants might organize a shared art project, a summer barbecue, or educational workshop. The goal is to create activities that build community. They encourage leadership and gives tenants confidence to shape their own community.
Food that builds friendships
Community kitchens are another way engagement goes beyond housing. What began as a food security program has grown into something bigger. Tenants learn life skills and cultural exchange.
Tenants learn budgeting and meal planning. They cook together, while sharing stories and traditions. These conversations turn simple meals into moments of belonging.
“When we engage tenants meaningfully, we help foster connection, belonging, and empowerment. This kind of support can reduce isolation, improve mental health, and build stronger communities.”
- Shaleen Pillay-Naidu, Tenant Engagement Manager
Turning housing into community
Programs like tenant-led activities and community kitchens bring people together. They help tenants make friends and learn new skills. These programs also help create stronger neighborhoods.
For more, listen to the Let’s Talk Housing podcast episode: Supporting Tenants: the Power of Support Programs and Services