In this episode, host Mita speaks with BC Housing’s own Shaleen Pillay-Naidu and Amber Bell to explore how tenant support programs help make housing more than just a place to live.

By featuring voices from the Tenant Engagement team, the conversation showcases how programs like community kitchens peer-led initiatives and the Tenant Activity Grant (TAG) helps create safe, supportive environments where families and youth can thrive. These programs demonstrate that housing is more than shelter — it’s a foundation for personal growth, empowerment, and community connection.

The episode reinforces BC Housing’s commitment to holistic, people-centered approaches that support tenant well-being, strengthen local partnerships, and build inclusive, thriving communities across B.C. It directly aligns with the organization’s broader goals of advancing equity, resilience, and social connection in the housing ecosystem.

Guests:
Shaleen Pillay-Naidu, Manager, Tenant Engagement, Housing & Health Services
Amber Bell, Tenant Engagement Worker, Housing & Health Services

The Tenant Activity Grant (TAG) is a program that provides activity grants for tenants living in BC Housing directly-managed properties.

If you are a tenant of a BC Housing building, you can apply for funding for projects, activities, workshops and parties at your housing site. You can contact your Tenant Support worker for more information and how to apply

Learn more: https://www.bchousing.org/housing-assistance/tenant-programs-resources/community-programs-services/tenant-activity-grant

#podcast #home #housing

Let’s Talk Housing Season 6 Episode 1

In this episode, host Mita speaks with Fran Hunt-Jinnouchi, Executive Director of the Aboriginal Coalition to End Homelessness (ACEH). Together, they explore how ACEH is transforming housing across Vancouver Island through culturally supportive, wraparound, and community-driven approaches that strengthen connection, wellness, and belonging.

Fran shares how programs like the Culturally Aligned Integrated Support (CAIS) — providing 200 rental supplements and seven streams of wraparound care — are improving housing stability across the island.

The conversation also spotlights Sacred Cradle House / Xexe Pahlatsis’lelum (ZEH-zeh pah-HAHL-tsis-LEH-lum), a new home guided by the voices of mothers, matriarchs, and Elders, blending housing, culture, and care for Indigenous families. Through stories of partnership and community leadership, this episode highlights how housing can be a pathway to healing and hope for generations to come.

Guests: Fran Hunt-Jinnouchi, Director, Aboriginal Coalition to End Homelessness

About:
The Aboriginal Coalition to End Homelessness Society (ACEH) is an Indigenous-led non-profit on Vancouver Island dedicated to ending Indigenous homelessness through culturally supportive housing, wraparound care, and system change. Guided by the voices of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples, ACEH’s “Big House” model blends housing with land-based healing, Elder guidance, and harm reduction rooted in culture. Their programs support individuals, families, and youth through community-driven approaches that restore belonging and wellness. ACEH also advocates for policies that address systemic barriers and advance reconciliation in housing across British Columbia.

Learn more: https://acehsociety.com

#podcast #housing #indigenous

*This episode was filmed during Minister Kahlon’s tenure as Minister of Housing.

In this episode of Let’s Talk Housing, we take a closer look at two programs that are helping British Columbians stay housed—the Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters (SAFER) and the Rental Assistance Program (RAP).

These impactful supports provide monthly rent subsidies to seniors and low-income families, easing financial pressure and creating more room for stability, health, and dignity. We’ll explore how these programs work, who they’re designed for, and why they matter, especially in today’s housing landscape. We’ll also highlight the recent changes to the programs that allow more people to qualify for these benefits, as well as increased subsidies to keep up with inflation.

At a time when affordability remains a major concern, this episode highlights how targeted government support can create meaningful, measurable change—helping people not just stay afloat but move forward.

Guests:

· Ravi Kahlon, Former Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs, British Columbia

· Alison Silgardo, CEO, Seniors Services Society of B.C.

About:
To learn more about BC Housing’s RAP and SAFER programs, visit:
Shelter Aid For Elderly Renters (SAFER) | BC Housing

RAP/SAFER Clients: Annual Reapplication and Updates | BC Housing

Learn more about the Seniors Services Society of B.C. here: Supporting vulnerable adults 60 years+ | Seniors Services Society

#podcast #home