At the Sunshine Coast Resource Centre, our primary mission is to empower community members by providing access to resources that help them navigate life’s challenges. One of our key initiatives is developing guides to simplify the often complex process of accessing resources. Our latest edition, the Community Housing Guide, was created in collaboration with Cover the Coast.
It’s no secret that housing affordability on the Sunshine Coast is critical. From young families struggling with rising rents to seniors seeking secure and supportive living environments, housing insecurity affects people from all walks of life. Our guide aims to provide a clear path through the range of subsidized, below-market, and market-rate rental options available in the region, allowing individuals to find solutions that meet their needs.
Affordable housing on the Sunshine Coast comes in various forms, and it’s helpful to understand the differences. For example, community housing includes subsidized units, where rent is based on income, and below-market housing provided by non-profits at reduced rates. Facilities like Campbell House in Pender Harbour and Shaw Place in Gibsons offer these types of rentals, ensuring a range of affordability for different tenants.
Seniors, a particularly vulnerable group in our community, have access to several specialized housing options. For those who are still independent, below-market housing, such as Greenecourt in Sechelt, provides an affordable solution. Seniors who need more intensive care due to physical challenges or advanced age can explore options like assisted living at Christenson Village in Gibsons or long-term care at Silverstone Care Centre in Sechelt. These facilities offer varying levels of support, from meal services to round-the-clock care, ensuring seniors receive the dignity and comfort they deserve.
At the Resource Centre, we also connect individuals with vital financial assistance programs that can make a difference in staying housed. The Canada-BC Housing Benefit (CBCHB) is a valuable resource for those who don’t qualify for other rental assistance programs, while the Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters (SAFER) helps seniors manage rent costs. Additionally, Sunshine Coast Community Services has established the “Keeping People Housed” initiative, offering interest-free loans for those facing temporary financial crises helping people maintain their homes during tough times.
Essential service workers — nurses, teachers, and emergency responders — also face challenges finding affordable homes in our community. Through collaboration with local partners, the Sunshine Coast Affordable Housing Society and Cover the Coast have developed a rental housing registry specifically for these workers, ensuring they can continue living and working locally.
At the Resource Centre, we’re proud to be part of a collaborative community effort to tackle these challenges. By working closely with community partners such as the Sunshine Coast Housing Action Table, the Town of Gibsons, the District of Sechelt, and Cover the Coast, we’re advocating for long-term strategies to expand affordable housing options. We firmly believe that a strong community depends on safe, affordable housing for everyone — families, seniors, singles, and essential workers alike.
If you or someone you know needs help navigating housing options on the Sunshine Coast or wants to learn more about available resources, contact us at [email protected], call 604-885-4088, or visit us at resourcecentre.ca to download the full 2024 Community Housing Guide.
