To date there are no specific independent programs for queer people. There are, however, private facilities for those who can afford them. There are usually long wait lists for subsidized and affordable housing.
SAFER - Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters
This is a BC Housing Program that provides cash to people 60 years and over who are paying more than 30% of their income on housing.
Other measurements are also used to decide whether someone qualifies. The processing time is approximately one month. Call 604-433-2218 for more information.
Assisted living
Assisted living is housing that also includes some health services. Health Regions provide a number of subsidized spaces for people who meet the eligibility requirements
A person may be eligible for Assisted Living if they:
- Are eligible to receive home support services
- Are able to make decisions about daily activities and needs
- Are able to communicate and be understood by others
- Do not behave in ways that put the safety of others at risk
- Are able to take direction in an emergency and use an emergency response system
Referrals are made by a case manager at your local Community Health Centre. Visit Vancouver Coastal Health’s Assisted Living web site for more information.
Residential Care
Publicly funded residential care spaces are decided by need. Your eligibility is decided after by an assessment by a case manager. Anyone can make the referral but it’s usually your doctor or a Social Worker at the hospital.
The placement process is called priority placement. This means that you must accept the first bed that is available. If you feel comfortable, indicate that you are a member of the LGTB community and need a place that is able to provide culturally relevant services and support.
For more information visit:
Queer friendly housing
QMUNITY’s Generations Project cannot guarantee that seniors housing facilities are queer friendly. Not every staff person will have had training regarding providing services to older queer adults.
However, Generations has worked with several Assisted Living and Residential Care Facilities including the following in Vancouver:
- Millenniums Towers Assisted Living - Davie Street
- Haro Park - Assisted Living and Residential Care - Haro Street
- Royal Oak Masonic care Facility - Champlain Crescent
