The Quadra Island Seniors Housing Society was established as a registered charitable nonprofit in 1995. Our first goal was to develop a new residence in Quathiaski Cove, aimed at providing affordable housing for seniors in our community who need assistance with independent living. We aspire to help them remain on Quadra for their entire lives, surrounded by family and friends, through supportive housing and community services.

Three years after our founding, longtime islander O’Connor generously donated a one-acre parcel of land on O’Connor Road to the Society. This donation enabled the construction of two duplexes and a detached home for seniors on Quadra. With support from various community groups and businesses—including BCOAPO Branch 91, Quadra Island Seniors, Royal Canadian Legion Branch 154, the Real Estate Foundation of BC, Quadra Island Credit Union, and Coastal Community Credit Union—two duplexes were completed by 2010. In 2013, a fifth unit was added, and there has been a waiting list since then.

 

A CMHC-funded Seniors Housing Needs Study in February 2016 highlighted the growing demand for more affordable housing for seniors on Quadra. In response, QISHS remortgaged the existing five units in 2016 to acquire an adjacent lot at 688 Harper Road and began expanding housing options for seniors on the island.

 

As the need for additional accommodation for lower-income seniors became increasingly evident, the Society, in partnership with Quadra Circle, conducted an island-wide survey in 2015 to establish the specific housing needs of seniors and the best ways to address them. As a result of this survey, the Society’s Board of Directors decided to construct a 16-unit apartment-style residence to provide supported living for lower-income seniors.

 

In 2016, we purchased a suitable property at 688 Harper Road, located beside the Peoples Drug Mart, backing onto the O’Connor Road duplexes. By remortgaging the O’Connor Road property, we secured the site. In late 2016, BC Housing approved funding for the project under the Investment in Housing Innovation Program. The $3.5 million project is financed through a low-interest loan from BC Housing of $1.5 million, an interest-free loan, QISHS equity, a CMHC Seed Funding grant, and community donations.

 

On September 1, 2021, through hard work, dedication, generosity, and a strong community spirit, our dream became a reality when we opened the doors of 688 Harper Road to welcome our new residents. welcome our new residents.o welcome our new residents.