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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
AMSSA and BCNPHA Launch Strategic Initiative to Address Housing Challenges for Resettled Refugees and Refugee Claimants in BC
October 2, 2024, Unceded Xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Territories / Burnaby, B.C. — AMSSA (Affiliation of Multicultural Societies and Service Agencies of BC) and BCNPHA (BC Non-Profit Housing Association) released a new strategic report An Examination Of The Most Acute Housing Needs of BC’s Newcomers: A Refugee Housing Strategy focused on addressing the pressing housing challenges faced by refugees and refugee claimants in British Columbia. This comprehensive strategy builds on recent research and provides recommendations to address some of these challenges.
“When it comes to newcomers, Government Assisted Refugees and Refugee Claimants in particular face unprecedented housing needs while also being overlooked in provincial housing planning,” said Katie Crocker, Chief Executive Officer of AMSSA. “Ensuring affordable housing for all British Columbians demands a comprehensive approach that addresses the housing needs of refugees, overcoming systemic barriers that may impede their access to suitable accommodation.”
Notably, refugee-led renter households are twice as likely to experience core housing need compared to other immigrant households. This includes falling below affordability, suitability, and/or adequacy standards.
“The housing needs of refugees are not considered in the housing plans of senior levels of government. We are pleased to partner with AMSSA on this strategy, focusing on refugees as part of our broader BC Housing Strategy,” said Jill Atkey, Chief Executive Officer of BC Non-Profit Housing Association (BCNPHA). “Given the unique barriers faced by refugees, it is essential to develop tailored strategies that effectively support their housing needs.”
The strategy recommends the following actions:
- Design and Build Housing Connection Centres: Create dedicated support centres that streamline access to housing and wraparound supports for refugees and refugee claimants immediately upon their arrival in the province.
- Expand Rental Subsidy Programs: Broaden existing rental subsidy programs to ensure they include refugee claimants, providing essential financial assistance to help them secure stable housing.
- Increase Capital Investments: Invest in expanding long-term, transitional, and emergency housing solutions specifically tailored for refugees to effectively address their immediate and ongoing housing challenges.
“Affordable and safe housing is foundational to successful settlement and overall prosperity,” said Katie Crocker, Chief Executive Officer of AMSSA. “This strategy is a significant step toward to addressing the housing needs of refugees and ensuring their integration into BC’s vibrant communities.”
AMSSA and BCNPHA extend their heartfelt gratitude to all collaborators involved in this initiative. Special thanks to the research teams, advisors, and community partners for their invaluable knowledge, expertise, and feedback.
Download the refugee Housing Strategy here
For more information on the BCNPHA Affordable Housing Plan for BC, please visit: https://housingcentral.ca/
About AMSSA:
AMSSA (Affiliation of Multicultural Societies and Service Agencies of BC) is dedicated to supporting the integration and well-being of multicultural communities in British Columbia.
About BCNPHA:
BC Non-Profit Housing Association (BCNPHA) represents the non-profit housing sector in BC, working to increase affordable housing options for everyone in BC.
