Our Community

The 127 Society houses seniors and people with disabilities who have low-incomes, with priority to Downtown South residents. Because of their difficult work lives and family situations, a “senior” is defined as a person 45 years and older. Individuals pay rent based on their income; generally rent is calculated each year as 30% of income or the BC Benefits Shelter Rate. (See Apply for Housing for more information.)

Some of our tenants have been homeless in the past, and many have been at risk of homelessness. Many tenants have complex health and social conditions that are especially difficult to manage in Vancouver’s challenging housing market.

Here are some of their stories

“We were one month away from homelessness when we got our place here.” Diane, tenant since 2001

Diane went on to say, “Our living situation was unstable and finding Brookland Court gave us security and safety. Brookland Court was our saving grace. It gave us a sense of belonging where we actually felt like we fit in. After living at Brookland, we became involved in the community. Jeff started volunteering at The Gathering Place in the kitchen. Both of us have volunteered at the Jubilee House Store for many years. I am the “official treasurer” of our monthly bingo, where everyone is happy to visit me to cash in their winnings! As we enter our senior years, we are happy to know that we have neighbours who care.“

“After I was discharged from the Merchant Marines, I ended up in St. Paul’s hospital due to mental health struggles. After four months, I was sent by hospital staff to apply at Jubilee House when it first opened in 1986. As of this June, I will be at Jubilee for 30 years, the last of the original tenants!” Val, tenant since 1986

Many of the Society’s tenants suffer from chronic health conditions like congestive heart failure or diabetes. When they lived in the SROs, they struggled to climb the stairs, and they found the noise and drinking there made them feel unsafe. Often they could be in and out of hospital several times a year. Finding housing with the 127 Society helped to stabilize their health.

Other tenants struggle with alcohol and drugs. They can stay away from drinking for long stretches and often hold down good jobs. But at stressful times, they relapse, which in the SRO setting could lead to loss of jobs and eventually housing. They need a place like the 127 Society where there are people to support them during the rough times.