March 26, 2010
Assisted Living Delevopment Opens in Squamish

SQUAMISH - Squamish Renaissance Retirement Residence officially opened today, providing 75 assisted living apartments with support services for independent seniors in Squamish, announced Joan McIntyre, MLA for West Vancouver-Sea to Sky.

"Seniors are living longer, healthier lives and our government is committed to supporting their independence by developing more affordable housing options," said McIntyre. "New developments like Squamish Renaissance Retirement Residence enrich the lives of seniors by providing a full range of up- to-date quality housing services close to family and friends."

Of the 75 assisted living apartments, 20 are subsidized by the Province. The remaining 55 apartments are private-pay. The apartments offer a middle option between home care and residential care for those who need some assistance, but do not need 24-hour professional nursing care. The Province will be providing an annual subsidy of up to $150,000 and Vancouver Coastal Health is providing $401,500 annually for support and hospitality services for the 20 assisted living apartments.

"This development is an important resource for Squamish and surrounding communities," said Marion Biln, manager, Vancouver Coastal Health Home & Community Care, Sea to Sky. "Residents not only receive assistance with medications and mobility, they have also been immersed in social and recreational opportunities that positively impact their overall quality of life."

"Seniors are a vibrant and active part of Squamish, and the community welcomes a development such as Squamish Renaissance Retirement Residence as it provides an excellent housing alternative," said Mayor Greg Gardner, District of Squamish. "This project represents a significant enhancement to seniors' care in our community."

The new building is located at 38225 3rd Ave. in Squamish, and provides a mix of one- bedroom, one-bedroom plus den, and two-bedroom apartments. Each apartment includes a kitchenette and balcony. The development also includes a dining room, library, craft/theatre room and salon/barbershop.

Squamish Renaissance Retirement Community owns and operates the development, which provides a range of quality housing services and care options for seniors in a warm, home-like environment.

"We are thrilled that our development is officially opening today with provincial and communities' partners on hand to celebrate," said Martin Gardner, representative of Squamish Renaissance Retirement Community. "The development is an innovative and progressive model of housing and care, and we're pleased to welcome its new residents."

In 2008, the provincial government met its commitment to provide 5,000 net-new residential care beds, assisted living units, supportive housing and home support. The Province has opened 5,896 additional new beds and units across B.C. since 2001.

In total, 12,435 new and replacement beds and units have been opened, replacing many that were old and unsuitable.

Through Housing Matters BC, the Province is addressing a range of housing needs, from homelessness to affordable rental housing and homeownership. To find out more about affordable housing in B.C., visit www.bchousing.org.

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