An 87 year-old woman named Anna* had been renting an apartment in Burnaby for the past 28 years. The landlords were an older couple. When the husband died, his wife gave Anna notice to vacate as she was going to sell the unit. Despite her best efforts, Anna could not find suitable accommodation, so she started living in her car. She was extremely fearful for her safety, not to mention concerned about winter fast approaching.

After being referred to Seniors Services Society by another organization, the team did a thorough assessment, and she was placed into a Rapid Access Unit. The next morning, she was at our office, filled with gratitude for having slept in a bed the previous night. Within two days, we were able to get her into our Temporary Housing and soon after she was accepted into a permanent, affordable housing unit in Vancouver with one of our partners. She was excited to move into her new home in time for Christmas.

She could not believe the turn of events and she will be able to live in her new home sustainably for a long time.

*name changed to protect privacy