Addressing the Housing and Social Challenges on the Sunshine Coast
The Sunshine Coast is experiencing a critical shortage of affordable and suitable housing, combined with gaps in essential social services that impact vulnerable populations, including seniors, low-income families, and individuals at risk of homelessness. These challenges are exacerbated by a rapidly aging population, limited rental inventory, the ongoing opioid crisis, and climate change risks.
This Social & Housing Needs Assessment, developed by HelpSeeker Technologies for Cover the Coast, provides a comprehensive analysis of housing demand, service gaps, and policy solutions to support affordable housing, social equity, and long-term community resilience.
Key Findings: Urgent Housing and Social Needs
1. The Region Faces a Severe Affordable Housing Shortage
- Nearly 80% of housing stock consists of single-detached homes, which are unaffordable for many households.
- There is an urgent demand for “missing middle” housing, such as townhomes, multiplexes, and apartment buildings.
- Limited rental supply has driven up costs, making it difficult for median-income and low-income families to secure stable housing.
2. Seniors Lack Affordable & Accessible Housing
- Seniors represent the fastest-growing demographic on the Sunshine Coast but have limited options for downsizing.
- 75% of seniors live in single-detached homes, which are often unaffordable or inaccessible as they age.
- Low-income seniors who rent face homelessness risks, with many paying over 75% of their income on rent.
3. Growing Homelessness and Lack of Transitional Housing
- The number of unhoused individuals is rising, with many living in encampments due to a lack of housing options.
- There is no local treatment and recovery center, forcing individuals to seek care in Vancouver and return without proper housing support.
- No rapid rehousing or diversion programs exist, meaning individuals facing sudden homelessness often have no alternative but to live in tents.
4. Workforce Housing Shortages Are Harming the Local Economy
- Lack of rental housing for working adults is impacting businesses, healthcare providers, and essential services.
- Many professionals, including teachers, police officers, and healthcare workers, struggle to find housing, leading to staffing shortages.
- BC Ferries is frequently canceling sailings due to crew shortages, partly due to the lack of affordable workforce housing.
5. Lone-Parent Families Are Struggling to Secure Stable Housing
- Lone-parent households are four times more likely to live below the poverty line.
- Many single mothers spend over 50% of their income on rent, making homeownership unattainable.
- Limited access to childcare is a major barrier, forcing parents to leave the workforce or rely on government assistance.
Strategic Solutions: Building a Sustainable & Inclusive Housing System
1. Expand Affordable & “Missing Middle” Housing Options
- Increase the supply of rental housing, townhomes, and multiplexes to address affordability gaps.
- Develop non-luxury rental units with rent-geared-to-income programs to serve low- and middle-income households.
- Promote zoning changes that support accessory dwelling units, tiny homes, and mixed-use developments.
2. Create Targeted Senior Housing Solutions
- Expand assisted living, long-term care, and hospice facilities.
- Develop affordable downsizing options to help seniors transition from single-family homes to more accessible housing.
- Increase rental subsidies and home support services to prevent seniors from becoming unhoused.
3. Invest in Transitional & Supportive Housing for Homeless Prevention
- Establish a treatment and recovery center on the Sunshine Coast to support addiction recovery.
- Develop transitional housing and second-stage housing to provide pathways out of homelessness.
- Implement rapid rehousing and rent subsidy programs to prevent people from falling into homelessness.
4. Address Workforce Housing Gaps to Support Economic Stability
- Increase the supply of affordable workforce housing for essential workers.
- Provide financial incentives for rental housing development to attract and retain skilled workers.
- Develop childcare facilities to enable parents to remain in the workforce.
5. Strengthen Supports for Lone-Parent Families
- Expand rental assistance programs to ensure housing stability for single parents.
- Increase childcare accessibility to enable workforce participation.
- Enhance second-stage transitional housing options for women and children fleeing violence.
A Call to Action: Investing in the Future of the Sunshine Coast
This report calls for coordinated action from policymakers, businesses, and community organizations to address the housing and social service gaps facing the Sunshine Coast. Investing in affordable housing, workforce stability, and social infrastructure will:
• Improve housing affordability and security for residents.
• Reduce homelessness and enhance social supports.
• Strengthen the local economy by retaining essential workers.
• Create a more inclusive and resilient community.
For a detailed analysis of housing demand, social service needs, and policy recommendations, read the full Sunshine Coast Social & Housing Needs Assessment (2023).
Read Full Report:
https://hubs.ly/Q02lJxcF0
