The Budzey is unique to both Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside and to RainCity Housing. It provides opportunities for women and families living there to make connections with a comprehensive range of services and navigate the change from previous housing situations or homelessness into stable, supported, permanent housing.
THE PURPOSE
To provide housing for women (Trans, Cis and Gender Diverse), and for women led families.
WHO IS INVOLVED
While there are 147 units in the building, there are well over 200 people that live there, as families change and grow. Since opening in July 2015, many newborns have come from hospital to the Budzey – their first home!
WHAT IT IS
A ten story building with 106 studio suites for women and 41 family units (1, 2 and 3 bedroom) for women led families. Staff focus on activities that will strengthen the community and provide services like:
- Liaising with community services and partners;
- Peer based programming;
- Community kitchen nights for women and families
This project uses a gender and diversity lens that supports an inclusive, safe and vibrant community, making it possible for everyone living at the Budzey to flourish.
The Budzey is named after Lorna Budzey who was one of the first individuals to challenge RainCity Housing to be inclusive and welcoming to everyone we work with. Lorna died in the summer of 2000.
CONTACT THE BUDZEY
604.215.5703