B.C. government announces nearly 160 new homes for women and children leaving violence

The B.C. government says 78 homes have opened in Vancouver and 80 in Langley as a mix of second-stage and long-term housing operated by YWCA BC and Ishtar Women's Resource Society.

The province of British Columbia has announced nearly 160 new homes intended for women and children leaving situations of intimate partner violence. Seventy-eight units are open in Vancouver and 80 in the Township of Langley. The projects include newly constructed second-stage housing and long-term affordable rental units. Officials described the developments as larger than previous projects under the Women's Transition Housing Fund. Key details: - Nearly 160 homes in total: 78 units in Vancouver and 80 units in Langley. - The East Vancouver development includes studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments and three-bedroom townhomes; it is operated by YWCA BC and contains 33 second-stage units and 45 long-term units. - The Langley building is six storeys; Ishtar Women's Resource Society will operate 33 second-stage units and YWCA BC will operate 47 long-term affordable rentals. - B.C. Housing defines second-stage housing as private low-cost units for safe, independent living typically lasting six to 18 months, while long-term housing offers subsidized rentals for those at risk or with lived experience. - Exact locations were not disclosed for residents' safety, and officials noted the projects are larger than earlier openings funded under the Women's Transition Housing Fund established in 2018. Summary: The new homes are intended to provide safer, more stable places and supportive services for people leaving intimate partner violence, including emotional support, safety planning and help finding permanent housing. Undetermined at this time.