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VANCOUVER, BC (April 19, 2021) – Media are advised that Jill Atkey, CEO of BC Non-Profit Housing Association, and Thom Armstrong, CEO of the Co-operative Housing Federation of BC, will be available for interviews on the 2021 BC Budget following its release Tuesday, April 20.

Atkey and Armstrong can speak with reporters on measures to address the housing affordability crisis and the unique concerns of the community housing sector. More than a year into the pandemic that has exposed deep inequalities in our housing and health systems, the need for safe, secure and affordable housing has never been greater.

In 2020, CHF BC created a Climate Emergency Task Force to address climate concerns among our co-op communities, and share knowledge, resources and strategies that can be implemented in co-ops throughout B.C.

We had a chance to talk to Task Force member Kathryn Sheps about her work in delivering measures to address climate change, how co-ops can do their part – and most importantly, how we can stay enthusiastic about the work during an already challenging tim

The BC Rebate for Accessible Home Adaptations (BC RAHA) is an updated version of the Home Adaptations for Independence (HAFI) program. BC RAHA launched in March 2021.

It provides financial assistance for low-income households to carry out adaptations for independent living.

Women have been part of CHF BC’s staff and leadership structure since the organization’s beginnings nearly 40 years ago. Today, 54% of CHF BC’s workforce and 71% of its management team are female, while more than half (58%) of the CHF BC board of directors is female.

Today, we’re shining a spotlight on some of our extraordinary leaders of the IWD 2021 campaign Choose to Challenge.

B.C.’s COVID-19 immunization plan was released on March 1. It provides details on how the COVID-19 vaccine will be distributed to different populations throughout the province. As we move into Phase 2 of the plan, the goal is to continue vaccinating vulnerable groups. Beginning this month that will include seniors aged 80+, residents of independent … Continued

As Black History Month draws to a close, we are reflecting on our work of shedding light on historical and modern day “hidden figures” in the Black community in British Columbia and Canada. Why did we feel it was important to celebrate Black History Month? 2020 was undoubtedly a year of reckoning in race relations. We all … Continued

Early pioneers Charles and Nancy Alexander moved north from California in 1858. In setting down roots on Vancouver Island became some of the first community builders in the Victoria area.

Their legacy of giving back to and strengthening the Victoria and Saanich communities has earned them a prominent place in BC’s history.

Throughout February the Housing Central partners are celebrating Black History Month. We are sharing stories of prominent individuals who made a positive impact on our communities. In the process, they helped shape this province and blazed a trail for the Black community. The City of Vancouver just wouldn’t be the same without Seraphim Joseph “Joe” Fortes  … Continued

Rosemary Brown broke through racial barriers and the glass ceiling, making her mark in politics and human rights and leaving behind an inspiring legacy of achievement.

Her work has helped ensure equal rights for women and people of colour, whether it’s in our schools, workplaces or homes.

For many people. learning about anti-racism can be a difficult and personal process. It can often be difficult to no where to start. While we are all in different places in our journeys to be anti-racist, a good place to start — or check in with yourself — is by reading, watching, and learning.

There have been several resources produced in recent years on this topic. Here are some to get you started.

In our first story we are touching on the football fever surrounding a particular event this weekend and showcasing the outstanding accomplishments of athlete, social worker, politician and community builder Emery Barnes.

Anyone familiar with US college sports, BC’s political history and the beloved Canadian Football league will recognize Barnes’ legacy – memorialized with a prominent Vancouver park named after him in 2003.

Responding to Systemic Racism In 2020, we saw a global response to systemic racism. This pervasive racism has existed for centuries against Black, Indigenous and people of colour (BIPOC). We were horrified at the events as they unfolded. Many organizations showed their support and issued statements in solidarity and support against systemic racism. At Housing … Continued