The official opening ceremony took place at Fair Haven’s McKay Apartments on April 12th, 2019 with Joy Parsons and Daniel Chung of Fair Haven Homes Society; Burnaby Mayor Mike Hurley; Elder Alec Dan, Musqueam Indian Band; Raj Chouhan, MLA for Burnaby-Edmonds; and several government representatives.
“Too many seniors, especially those on fixed incomes, are being squeezed out of a tight rental market,” said Raj Chouhan, MLA for Burnaby-Edmonds. “I am thrilled for the seniors who have a new place they can afford. Our government is working hard to create the partnerships needed to build even more projects like this to help people find a place to call home in their community.”
McKay Apartments located at 4341 Rumble Street, Burnaby, has replaced aging facilities with 145 units of seniors’ affordable rental housing in a new 4-storey building, increasing the much needed seniors rental supply for an aging population.
Fifteen units were designed as fully accessible; while the remaining conform to adaptable housing standards allowing units to be altered to suit resident needs.
“We know that seniors are struggling to stay in the community they know and love, close to friends and family,” said Anne Kang, Parliamentary Secretary for Seniors. “Thanks to the opening of McKay Apartments, more than 140 seniors now have a home where they can age in place.”
The multi-purpose gathering room opens to an extensive courtyard landscape complete with accessible walking circuits, urban agricultural planters and exercise stations which are designed to bring people together and create community. Pathways also connect to David Gray Park to the north and to the larger neighbourhood.
“Fair Haven Homes is very proud to be able to welcome new tenants to the McKay Apartments. With support from dedicated volunteers, board members, professionals and staff, Fair Haven Homes has been able to achieve its mission of providing homes that nurture community and quality of life for seniors here at McKay Apartments.” – Joy Parsons, CEO, Fair Haven Homes Society