On September 18th, the City of Vancouver announced the launch of Vancouver’s Social Housing Initiative, working toward the critical need for affordable housing by simplifying and changing zoning regulations to allow for mixed-income social, supportive, and co-operative housing to be built without a rezoning in all Vancouver neighborhoods. 

Taking direction from Vancouver Plan’s approved land use vision, this initiative would permit non-profit and government organizations to build social housing buildings from 6 to 18 storeys, depending on neighbourhood type, with a focus on areas close to transit and commercial centres. New buildings will have the opportunity to include local serving retail and childcare alongside social housing. 

The City is hosting information sessions both in-person and online where participants can learn more about the proposal: 

1. Tuesday, October 1, 4:30-7:30 pm, Seniors Centre Multipurpose Room, Kerrisdale Community Centre (5851 West Boulevard) 
2. Wednesday, October 2, 6-7:30 pm *Virtual Information Session* (register here) 
3. Thursday, October 3, 4:30-7:30 pm, Room A, Croatian Cultural Centre (3250 Commercial Drive) 
4. Tuesday, October 8, 6:00-7:30 pm *Virtual Information Session* (register here) 

More information can be found in the full proposal details, and comments on the initiative can be shared here until Tuesday, October 22nd, 2024.