Just Ask: Do I need to keep my BC Housing application up to date?
Hayley Toth | Sunshine Coast Resource Centre
BC Housing provides subsidized rental housing for individuals, seniors, and families with low to moderate incomes who are unable to secure housing at market rates. Applications are not tied to a single building, but instead go through a province-wide system known as the BC Housing Registry.
This means that when someone applies, they are entered into a central housing list that is used by BC Housing and participating non-profit housing providers across British Columbia, including developments on the Sunshine Coast. The registry is not a waitlist. When someone applies to the registry, they are offered housing based on need. Examples include, leaving a violent situation, health concerns or stability of current income.
There is not an application office on the Sunshine Coast for housing. Applications can be completed online through the BC Housing Online Portal (housingapplication.bchousing.org/olf/faces/welcome) , by mail using the Housing Registry Application Form sent to BC Housing, 1701–4555 Kingsway, Burnaby, BC, V5H 4V8, or by phone at 1-800-257-7756 (toll-free). Once accepted, a registry number is then issued. This number is important, as it connects applicants to available housing opportunities as they arise.
Once an application is active, it is important to keep it up to date. Applicants must update their file at least every six months, even if there are no changes. This confirms continued interest and ensures the application remains active. If a file is not updated, it may be placed on hold or removed from the system. As new housing units are expected to become available on the Coast, ensuring applications are current is especially important for those hoping to be considered.
For those unsure about their status or needing help updating their application, support is available. Resource Centre staff can assist with printing application forms or assisting with the application process, completing updates, or making contact with BC Housing if needed. Updates can also be completed directly by calling 1-800-257-7756.
For individuals preparing to move into new housing, community supports can also help with setting up a home. Local resources such as Craigslist Sunshine Coast, community Facebook “free” pages, and Buy Nothing Gibsons can be helpful for finding or sharing household items.
If you or someone you know is a senior, the Resource Centre’s also has a dedicated Senior Community Connector, Tanis, who is available to help navigate these application processes and online platforms. Support is available through the Resource Centre at 5674 Cowrie Street, open Monday to Thursday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. You can also reach us at help@resourcecentre.ca or 604-885-4088.