SURREY – Young adults experiencing or at risk of homelessness now have access to 30 affordable homes with supports as they move into a new transitional-housing building.

“These transitional homes will provide vulnerable young adults with the care and stability they need to take their next steps, whether it’s pursuing education, a career or other opportunities,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing. “Through our Homes for People action plan, we’re delivering thousands of homes that not only provide a roof for young people, but help them build an important foundation of community connection.”

The building at 11228 131 St., named by youth as 1.1.2. for the first three digits of its address, provides 24/7 support services for young adults between 19 and 24, many of whom are transitioning from government care. The building is operated by the Pacific Community Resources Society.

“Everyone deserves a safe and affordable place to call home,” said John Aldag, MP for Cloverdale-Langley City, on behalf of Sean Fraser, federal Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities. “Our government will continue our efforts to create more homes across the country for those who need it most, including here in Surrey. This funding not only provides a helping hand for youth in need, but also contributes to the economic and social well-being of the entire community. This is the National Housing Strategy at work.”

Supports at 1.1.2. include daily meals, health and wellness services, cultural programming and recreational events, as well as connections to substance-use services, education, training and other employment opportunities. Residents will stay for two years or until age 25, and partner with a housing worker to prepare to move into permanent housing.

This project is part of a $19-billion housing investment by the B.C. government. Since 2017, the Province has nearly 78,000 homes that have been delivered or are underway, including more than 1,860 homes in Surrey.

Learn More:

To learn about B.C.’s Homes for People action plan, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023HOUS0019-000436

To learn about the steps the Province is taking to tackle the housing crisis and deliver affordable homes for people in British Columbia, visit: https://strongerbc.gov.bc.ca/housing/

For information about Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, visit: https://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/en

To find out about the National Housing Strategy, visit: https://www.placetocallhome.ca/

Two backgrounders follow.

Grace Lore, Minister for Children and Family Development –

“We know that without adequate supports, vulnerable young adults, especially those from care, are much more likely to experience homelessness and other negative outcomes. The housing and services offered through 1.1.2. will provide much-needed support for young people to help them as they transition into adulthood and build independence.”

Rachna Singh, MLA, Surrey-Green Timbers –

“These homes will help put vulnerable young people in Surrey on a path toward independent, healthy living throughout their adult lives. We know young people have distinct needs and I’m proud to be part of a government that incorporates them into housing solutions throughout the province.”

Bruce Ralston, MLA, Surrey-Whalley –

“With the opening of 1.1.2., young adults in Surrey will have access to safe, affordable housing and support services that will set them up for success in the years to come. These kinds of projects not only benefit the residents, but also improve the health and well-being of the community at large and that’s a win for Surrey.” 

Brenda Locke, mayor of Surrey –

“Every young person deserves a safe place to call home. With the largest youth population in B.C. and the largest school district in the province by far, this project fills a crucial need in Surrey. This purpose-built facility will provide homes for 30 young residents, who will receive the support they need to transition into a healthy adulthood. When we care for our youth, we empower them to reach their full potential.”

Steve Atkinson, CEO, Pacific Community Resources Society (PCRS) –

“Safe, affordable homes, like 1.1.2., empower young people to focus on their education, health and employment, and provide a pathway to ending the cycle of homelessness. Thanks to our partners, including the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, the City of Surrey and BC Housing, PCRS is thrilled to be able to open 1.1.2. and provide homes to the youth of Surrey.”

• The federal government provided $13.8 million for the project through the Rapid Housing Initiative Cities Stream.
• The Province is providing annual operating funding of approximately $2 million.
• The City of Surrey provided the land and is leasing it to the operator for a nominal fee.
• Canada’s National Housing Strategy is a 10-year, $82-billion-plus plan that will give more Canadians a place to call home.
• The Province recognizes that youth who are transitioning from government care are especially vulnerable to housing insecurity and poor social and economic outcomes.
• In Budget 2022, the Province announced a three-year, $35-million investment for programs and services supporting young adults as they transition out of care and into adulthood.
• In April 2024, the Province also expanded eligibility for the Strengthening Abilities and Journeys of Empowerment (SAJE) program, meaning supports are available to thousands more current and former youth in care.
• These include rent supplements, income support, mental-health support, funds for life-skills training, and more.