Supported Housing
The supported housing programs at RainCity Housing provide longer term housing, counseling and support to clients who are recommended or identified as appropriate for these programs.
Princess Rooms Transitional Housing Program (Princess Rooms)
The Princess Rooms specializes in providing safe, supported housing to high-risk, high-needs individuals with a history of chronic homelessness.
The Princess Rooms program was designed to meet the special housing needs of clients who repeatedly stayed at the Triage Shelter. The Princess Rooms offers a minimal barrier, high tolerance environment and follows a harm-reduction/health promotion philosophy.
The Princess Rooms are staffed 24 hours a day by a team of trained health care workers who provide an environment which is accepting of street activities, yet which also provides alternative experiences and opportunities. The team works purposefully and collaboratively with clients and the community to create alternatives to homelessness, with the goal of a return to health, hope and stability.
The program begins with a patient, persistent engagement process and harm reduction interventions in all areas of the tenant’s life. Staff work with each person to build a plan to move forward that is based on their individual strengths and motivations. Social and other activities are offered, and as resources permit staff to regularly drive or accompany tenants to buy groceries, visit family or go to doctor or other appointments.
Most of the suites are single rooms with kitchenettes, with some one-bedroom suites, offering privacy and safety for the residents.
The Princess Rooms welcomes pets, which is rare among service providers.
5616 Fraser Street (Fraser Street)
Fraser Street provides supported housing for people who want to live a substance-free life. It is an alcohol and drug-free facility located outside of the Downtown Eastside, providing the infrastructure and support to help clients achieve long-term health and stability.
Tenants are provided with a full range of support services, including social and recreational opportunities, life skills assistance, support in achieving their treatment goals, and support in finding and maintaining employment.
The building is staffed 24 hours per day 7 days a week. The 24 hour staff presence ensures the building remains a safe haven for the tenants.
Vancouver Coastal Health provides program funding and refers potential residents, and RainCity Housing provides the program and delivers the services. The tenants are stable and well supported by the staff within the Fraser Street Program as well as by community agencies and services.
