Bowser Seniors Housing Society

Sept 1, 2024 – Public Announcement: Bowser Seniors Housing Society Receives Approval to Begin Construction of Lighthouse Villa

The Bowser Seniors Housing Society (BSHS) is thrilled to announce that we received official approval from BC Housing to begin construction on Lighthouse Villa, our long-awaited seniors’ independent housing project in the heart of Bowser. This exciting milestone represents a significant step forward in our mission to provide affordable, accessible, and independent housing for seniors in our community.

About Lighthouse Villa

Lighthouse Villa has been designed to meet the unique needs of independent seniors in Bowser and surrounding areas. The project has been in the planning stages for over 20 years, driven by a passionate Board of Directors, volunteers, and community members dedicated to addressing the growing demand for senior housing.

Lighthouse Villa’s 22 private rental units at ground level will be furnished with each senior’s own possessions. Residents will be responsible for their own meals, housekeeping, personal laundry, and utilities (hydro, cable, and phone). Its location adjacent to Magnolia Court ensures that residents can enjoy a safe and comfortable environment with easy access to nearby amenities. The building is designed to encourage companionship with common areas for social activities and to foster a sense of community, connection, independence, and well-being.

A Community Achievement

This achievement would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our community, partners, and stakeholders. Years of fundraising, including pancake breakfasts, garage sales, hot dog sales, online auctions, raffles, and annual galas have brought in over $400,000. We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who has contributed to this project, whether through donations, volunteer work, or advocacy. Your dedication has brought us to this much anticipated moment.

Next Steps

With approval in hand, BSHS will be moving swiftly to begin construction. We anticipate breaking ground in the coming months, with a projected completion date early in 2026. Throughout the construction phase, we will keep the community informed of our progress and any opportunities to get involved.

How to Get on the Housing List

We have partnered with BC Housing on this affordable independent housing project, where resident eligibility is determined through income level and assets held. The 22 rental units will be comprised of 4 units at shelter rate, 11 at rent-geared-to-income, and 7 at a federally determined market rate. The Villa will be offering spaces to eligible seniors through the BC Housing Registry and our own waiting list. Our waiting list has not yet been established. Further information will be forthcoming in the new year.

To ensure that you qualify, please log into the BC Housing Registry website at: https://www.bchousing.org/housing-assistance/rental-housing/subsidized-housing

Please note that the Villa will not appear in the housing listings for some time.

If you feel you qualify for subsidized housing, here’s how to get on the list:

Visit website at BC Housing Application
Complete the housing application form available online.
Submit the required documents as outlined in the application instructions.

Stay Connected

To stay updated on our progress, upcoming events, and other important announcements, please consider becoming a BSHS member where you will receive timely communications. Alternatively, information can be found on our website at bshs.ca

Thank you once again for your continued support. Together, we are building more than just a housing facility – we are building a brighter future for our seniors.

Our Vision: To build and operate a well respected, not-for-profit independent living facility for seniors within the Bowser community.

Our Mission: To provide seniors with comfortable, independent living spaces at low to moderate rents, while maintaining their sense of community near friends and family.

Our Objective: To enable Bowser and area seniors to remain in their community, continue to contribute in and to their community and enjoy their community long after they reach the point when they need to move from their home.

Please go to Lighthouse Villa, Project Overview to see more details.

YOUR SUPPORT

Will help us to raise the monies needed to furnish the common room, purchase
a large emergency generator, and equip the group kitchen.

News and Events

June 2024 Bowser Dog Days of Summer a Success!

Thank you for Your Support!!

What a fun and windy day in Bowser! Thanks to all the locals and visitors who came by and bought a hotdog and supported Bowser Seniors Housing! It was great to see so many little ones with amazingly painted faces come by, as well as the friendly smiles of local dogs .

Thank you to First Credit Union for your support and we look forward to seeing everyone again at our next Hotdog event on August 7th at the Bowser Legion!

2024 Mothers Day Pancake Breakfast

Thank you for Your Support!!

Sending a huge thank-you to the team of 25 volunteers who made our Mother’s Day Pancake Breakfast a big success, with an extra pat on the back to those who helped behind the scenes with shopping, meat prep, table & chair set-up, table cards, and the washing, drying, & counting of 20 pounds of strawberries (Thank you Quality Foods for the donation!) used to garnish the plates.

We served 275 people on this busy Mothers Day – and two lucky women won flower arrangements donated by Brian’s Feed and Seed as well as Fresh n’ Fabulous – Alicia P and Brenda T. Congrats!

Many compliments were heard at the kitchen window, out on the floor, and at our membership table regarding the high quality of the meal, the attentive service, and the pleasant ambience. It was a very happy crowd!

We look forward to our next food fundraiser June 22nd at Dog Days of Summer where we’ll be serving hotdogs, brats and veggie dogs.

We look forward to seeing you soon!