As housing affordability continues to decline across Vancouver Island, more seniors, families, and individuals are finding themselves unable to secure safe, stable housing. Rising rents, limited housing availability, and increasing financial pressures have created unprecedented demand for affordable and supportive housing, leaving many people at risk of homelessness or forced to make impossible choices between paying rent and meeting their basic needs.
To help address this growing crisis, the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul Vancouver Island is launching its inaugural Hearts for Homes Campaign, culminating in the Hearts for Homes Gala on Saturday, Oct. 3.
The campaign aims to raise more than $200,000 to help maintain and expand the Society’s housing programs, ensuring more individuals and families have access to safe, stable, and affordable homes.
“We view the lack of affordable housing as a real crisis,” says Derek Pace, Executive Director of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul Vancouver Island. “Every day we see people who are working hard but simply can’t keep up with the rising cost of housing. Others are rebuilding their lives after experiencing violence, illness, or financial hardship. Stable housing provides the foundation for better health, employment, education, and hope. Through Hearts for Homes, we’re inviting our community to be part of the solution.”
For more than a century, the Society has supported vulnerable individuals and families across Vancouver Island. Today, it provides affordable housing for low-income seniors, transitional housing for women and children fleeing violence, and supportive housing for individuals overcoming poverty and homelessness. These programs are complemented by food security initiatives like the Choices food pantry, community outreach through the Social Concern Office, thrift stores, and resource navigation services that help people regain stability and independence.
Funds raised through the Hearts for Homes campaign and gala will help preserve existing housing, improve facilities, and increase the Society’s ability to respond to growing community needs. The gala will bring together business leaders, community partners, donors, and supporters for an evening featuring a gourmet dinner, live entertainment, inspiring stories of resilience, and live and silent auctions. Beyond raising funds, the event seeks to increase awareness of the housing challenges facing communities across Vancouver Island and encourage long-term investment in housing solutions.
“When people have a safe place to call home, they are better able to care for their families, maintain employment, improve their health, and contribute to the community,” adds Pace. Every sponsorship, auction donation, ticket purchased, and financial contribution will help build stronger, healthier communities.”
The Society is currently seeking event sponsors, auction donations, and community partners to support the campaign. Tickets for the Hearts for Homes Gala are still available. For more information about the Hearts for Homes Campaign, sponsorship opportunities, or to purchase tickets, people are asked to visit www.ssvpvancouverisland.ca or contact the charity.
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul Vancouver Island provides essential services including food security programs, housing support, and access to basic necessities for those in need throughout the region.
Media Contact: Steven Seltzer Director of Communications and Philanthropy 250-882-8441 sseltzer@ssvpvictoria.com
Learn more about Saint Vincent De Paul on our Member Directory.