• The Median After-Tax Income in Vancouver is $53,400 (2021) for people aged 25-54 years old.

• According to CBC, rents for one bedroom apartments cost $2,200 to $2,700. That’s around fifty to sixty percent of income used to pay rent.

• Many are expected to make less than the median income.

• Combined with record rates of immigration, the situation has become untenable.

• Net population growth: 80,000 people (2022)

• 4,000 units of net purpose-built rental creation during that same year is far too little.

• Combined with high prices and other costs, many cannot even afford to stay in the city.

• Compared to 1977, medium income was $52,600 in terms of 2021 purchasing power($19,000) and housing cost on average, $80,000.

• It’s also notable to say that the 70s saw a massive spike in the building of low income rentals in the Vancouver metro area. Later decades have not.

The younger generation is acutely aware of the pressing challenges surrounding affordable housing in Vancouver; however, their engagement often lacks depth. While they recognize the symptoms of the crisis—skyrocketing rent prices, limited availability of housing, and the increasing financial burden on young families—their understanding of the underlying policies and frameworks that shape these issues remains superficial.

This gap in knowledge undermines their ability to contribute meaningfully to discussions about potential solutions. Young people wish to voice their concerns and ideas, yet without a clear grasp of existing policies and legislative processes, they struggle to provide informed input. Many are unaware of the various resources that can help them deepen their understanding or ways to engage in policymaking.

Moreover, the absence of a structured platform for youth involvement further exacerbates this issue. As a result, their voices are often sidelined in discussions that will ultimately shape their future. For the younger generation to influence policy developments surrounding affordable housing, we must bridge this knowledge gap. By empowering them with information, resources, and avenues for expression, we can ignite a movement where young people become active, informed participants in the policymaking process. Only then can we work collaboratively towards sustainable solutions that reflect the needs and aspirations of our community.

Our mission is to help create a platform to bridge the gap between developers, housing agencies, and local youth. By involving youth directly in the industry, they gain invaluable real-world experience and the opportunity to contribute to research and development in a meaningful way. This not only benefits their personal and professional growth but also ensures that developers receive fresh perspectives on housing challenges. Such collaboration can lead to innovative solutions that address the needs of future generations, making affordable housing more accessible and sustainable. It's a proactive approach to community development that empowers all participants and promotes a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding affordable housing.