Celebrating the Grand Opening of YWCA Sandy So Vista
On September 11, 2024, YWCA Metro Vancouver had the privilege of hosting our incredible partners and many of our donors at the opening of our newest housing community, YWCA Sandy So Vista at 388 Slocan Street, in Vancouver.
This project grew out of a desire to address the region’s housing crisis and took teamwork between government, corporations and philanthropists. Thanks to those partnerships, YWCA Sandy So Vista provides 14 deeply affordable homes to women and single mothers and their children. An additional 56 below-market rental units are available to the broader community.
“We thank BC Housing, the City of Vancouver and Chard Development for supporting this incredible new housing community. We are also grateful for our many generous donors, including our naming donor, Sandy So,” YWCA CEO Erin Seeley said. “We know YWCA Sandy So Vista and 388 Slocan will have a positive impact in our community, providing stable, affordable housing for those who need it most.”
Nestled in a bustling neighborhood, close to a school, parks and local businesses, the six-storey building has commercial space at ground level and a mix of studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom units. The homes face an inner courtyard, with a safe green space and a play area. The building has a shared rooftop terrace with 360-degree views as far as Mount Baker and the Lions Gate Bridge for residents to enjoy.
Husnia, who lives in another YWCA housing community, shared her story. “If you had asked me two years before, ‘what are your plans for your future,’ I wouldn’t have been able to answer,” Husnia said about her experience before she moved into YWCA housing with her mother. “But now I’m pretty confident and I feel like my future is clear.”
Without worrying about housing, Husnia has been able to focus on her education and is now pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration.
“I can’t explain through words the emotion I’m feeling when I’m thinking about the YWCA, this organization stands for all women who face barriers and hard times.”
- Husnia
With the opening of YWCA Sandy So Vista, the YWCA now operates 16 housing communities across Metro Vancouver, providing safe and affordable homes for more than 700 residents.
Despite all our efforts to provide affordable housing for women and children across the region, nearly 1,500 families are still on our waitlist. This is why housing remains one of our key priorities, and why we’ve launched our Housing Action Fund.
The Housing Action Fund’s campaign goal is $5 million. These funds will enable YWCA Metro Vancouver to pursue new housing opportunities and make improvements to existing communities. It’ll help move families off the waitlist, and help them access a safe, affordable home.
