A new affordable housing project in New Westminster is now providing safe, secure and affordable homes for several families and people with disabilities.
On Oct. 4, the City of New Westminster, the Community Living Society and Catalyst Community Development Society celebrated the grand opening of a unique and inclusive housing project. The project came about after the city issued a request for proposals for innovative housing projects at two city-owned sites in New West.
“These new housing units will mean that people with disabilities and families have homes they can afford in a safe and welcoming environment,” New Westminster MLA Judy Darcy said in a press release. “It takes a community and it takes a province working together to build an inclusive society, and I am so grateful to all the partners who made this project a reality. We will continue to work in partnerships and invest in homes, like the new homes here in New Westminster, to help create healthy and thriving communities.”
The project, located at 43 Hastings St. in downtown New Westminster, includes three fullyaccessible one-bedroom units for people with developmental disabilities who are supported by the Community Living Society. It also includesthree below-market rental three-bedroom townhouses, which are currently occupied by three families with children.
“Affordable and inclusive housing projects are central to creating livable communities for people with developmental disabilities who wish to live independently,” said Shane Simpson, Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction. “When our partners work together like this, they break down barriers and make life better for people living with disabilities. Together, we will continue to work to make B.C. a more inclusive place.”
According to a press release from the city, Community Living BC provided funding for the technology in the wheelchair accessible units. The assistive technology developer from the Community Living Society worked with each of the individuals to customize technology that would facilitate their independence and connections to family and friends.
“The completion of the small site affordable housing project at 43 Hastings St. marks a significant accomplishment for the City of New Westminster’s Affordable Housing Strategy and our commitment to meeting the housing needs of our diverse community,” Mayor Jonathan Cote said in a press release. “Our partnership with the Community Living Social and Catalyst Community Development Society exemplifies how cities and non-profit organizations can work together to deliver new affordable housing options for families in New Westminster.”
As part of the opening event, Cote formally dedicated the development to Beverly Grieve, the city’s former director of development services, who was devoted to community planning and innovative housing ideas. The city notes that this project, and other affordable housing projects, were realized under Grieve’s direction.
