Temporary Housing Program

The availability of THP units is limited and the current need is very high. Priority for available units will be based on a case-by-case need for seniors (60+) in Metro Vancouver (excluding the Downtown Eastside).  There is currently a waitlist.

Seniors Services Society’s Temporary Housing Program is filling a gap in housing for seniors (60+) by providing a furnished apartment in conjunction with tailored outreach services for homeless or at-risk seniors.

The program provides a private apartment, furnished by donation, as temporary accommodation to homeless seniors for up to three months while they seek housing.

Clients will be assigned an outreach worker and will get one-on-one support to assist them in obtaining permanent, appropriate housing.

THP is not emergency housing and it is not the same as a traditional shelter; it is unsupervised and unattended, and the units are embedded within regular apartment buildings where the neighbours are regular tenants of the building. For this reason, clients must go through a strict screening process including intake and interviews with THP staff. Not all homeless and at-risk seniors will be eligible for THP. For immediate shelter assistance, please call the shelter and street helpline at 604-875-6381.

Please note: With an increasing number of older adults with pets needing housing (up to 60% in the last few months) and with the limited number of vacancies in pet-friendly housing, we will no longer be able to support older adults with pets who need housing services.  We are happy to provide information and guidance on programs and services that are available in the meantime.

Eligibility

The THP is for vulnerable adults 60 years or older who:

● Are homeless or at risk of homelessness
● Having a source of income
● Are able to live independently
● Are able to live in the unit without being at risk to themselves or disturbing other tenants
● Do not have active addictions or unmanaged mental health concerns and if so, must be connected to appropriate support services
● Are willing to adhere to THP Occupancy Rules
● Are self-motivated and able to take direction regarding housing searches

Fee:

For pensioners, employment income, private pensions and others:  45% of gross monthly income or $625, whichever is greater.
For MSDPR clients: $625 or the shelter portion, whichever is greater.

Referral:

All clients must go through the agency’s standard intake process. Eligibility for THP will be determined by the Seniors Services Society of BC during the intake process. When we determine that the THP program meets your needs, you will be referred internally to the THP Coordinator who will conduct a comprehensive interview, including reference checks, and then make the final decision.

To refer a new client, please email housing@seniorsservicessociety.ca or call 604-520-6621 and make a phone appointment to speak with a Housing Services staff member.

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