Supportive housing: yes in my backyard
People are living under these tarps outside the ice rink at Harry Jerome Rec Center.
Photo: Heather Drugge
Supportive housing is actually affordable rental housing for people experiencing or at risk of experiencing homelessness. It includes in-house support services like physical and mental healthcare, counselling, life and job skills training, among others. The support services aim to help people preserve stable health and housing over the long term.
Who needs supportive housing?
People experiencing homelessness are not a homogenous group and there are many paths to homelessness. The leading causes of homelessness on the North Shore are low income, high rents and a lack of affordable rentals. People range from seniors and people with disabilities to people with physical, mental health and substance use disorders, as well as youth who may be transitioning out of care or foster homes.
North Shore News poll results
Why is supportive housing important on the North Shore?
We have people experiencing homelessness here on the North Shore. A March 2023 count identified 168 people without homes, but this was a one-time snapshot, which means it’s likely under the actual number. In 2020, the same snapshot identified 121 homeless individuals, but a count over a longer period identified 212 people. So today, in 2025, we likely have significantly more than 200 people living without homes. That’s a small percentage of our population, but still a lot of people—they would fill roughly one-third of the Centennial Theatre. The District of North Vancouver estimates that by 2030, they will need 150 supportive homes. The district has approved 143, but as of Feb 2025 there are only 18 built.
The District of North Vancouver’s projected and completed supportive housing.
Source: https://www.dnv.org/community-environment/progress-our-housing-objectives#358f6822
What is complex care housing?
There are some people with acquired brain injuries, mental health, chronic illness and/or substance use disorders who continue to cause social problems in our communities even with supportive housing. These people are relatively few but cause disproportionate calls on emergency healthcare and police. The government is trying to address this problem through complex care housing. Complex care teams work with a small caseload, allowing care professionals to build trust, relationships and connections to improve the chances for people who do not respond to become less disruptive members of society. The East Keith Road supportive housing facility will offer complex care housing for five people. Without complex care built into supportive housing facilities, the chances for the few people who cause social problems to become disruptive are higher. Here’s a link to an interview with Premier David Eby regarding complex care housing.
What’s the difference between social housing and supportive housing?
There are no built-in social supports for residents living in social housing, but rents are significantly lowered through government and private subsidies. The new building being constructed on Delbrook at Queens is an example of social housing. That project is a partnership between Hollyburn Family Services, BC Housing and the District of North Vancouver. The discussion about this project started in 2015 and is nearing completion after ten years. Another social housing project on Lillooet Road is currently being discussed.
The Eleanor, a block off Lonsdale is a six-storey social housing building with 75 rental homes affordable for middle-income households. Ten of these homes have rent geared for people with low to moderate incomes. Photo: Heather Drugge
How are supportive housing projects funded?
Together, we fund supportive housing through provincial taxes, municipal land leases, and personal charitable donations. In most cases, municipalities provide the land while retaining ownership, the provincial government finances construction and sometimes operating costs, and philanthropic societies or associations oversee program development, operations, and donations.
For example, the supportive housing project at West 16th and Lloyd Avenue is jointly funded by BC Housing and the RainCity Housing and Support Society on land provided by the District of North Vancouver. That project is intended for single women and women-led families experiencing homelessness or who are at risk of becoming homeless.
Supportive housing benefits the whole community
People who have a safe, stable home can contribute positively to society. People who feel secure in their housing are more likely to get involved, volunteer, and care about their surroundings, leading to a lively community where everyone thrives.
Investing in supportive housing is good value
By helping those at risk, we save money that would otherwise go to emergency services, healthcare, and the criminal justice system. For every dollar spent on supportive housing, we save several times that amount in reduced public costs. Some countries are finding that addressing homelessness, even with supportive services, saves CAD $23,500 per person each year.
Everyone deserves a home
Supportive housing is about investing in the health and happiness of our entire community. When we provide affordable housing and the support services people need, we help them regain their feet and become part of society again. The results reach far beyond those directly involved, making our community stronger for everyone.
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