Move-In Day at Covenant House Vancouver

After years of hard work to plan and build a new flagship building for young people overcoming homelessness, Covenant House Vancouver (CHV) welcomed youth to the new building on a joy-filled and inspiring day last month. 

CHV Crisis Program Manager Meagan shared a few comments she overheard from youth as they walked into their new rooms. “The beds are premium!” one youth exclaimed. “My bedroom is gorgeous!” another echoed.

“We’ve spent lots of time ensuring 1280 Seymour is as comfortable and welcoming as it can be for young people,” shared Kristy Hayter, CHV director of communications and marketing, referring to the street address of the new facility.

The redeveloped space consists of 10 stories, with 60 short-term shelter beds plus a fitness center, art therapy room, and classrooms in a warm, bright, and supportive setting.

Move-in day marked the end of Covenant House Vancouver’s second phase of expansion. The first phase, completed in 2019, consisted of a 5-story new-construction building right across the street from 1280 Seymour, with 28 beds. Youth lived there until last month, and now the space will be repurposed for young people managing substance use and overcoming addiction. 

The final step of CHV’s expansion will include the addition of new studio apartments for youth in our Rights of Passage transitional housing program. 

“I think that the young people that are with us are going to be quite happy with these new spaces, more beds and more programs. And I think the staff are going to be happy,” said CHV Chief Executive Officer Herb Eibensteiner, who, in his prior capacity as chief operations officer, led the years-long expansion effort.

A big reason CHV was able to reach these huge milestones and create beautiful spaces, where young people facing homelessness can heal and advance their life plans and dreams, is the Covenant House community.

“Our generous donors have been instrumental in helping us make our new building feel like a home for the young people,” Kristy shared. “Moving into a new home can be a tough transition for anyone, but our donors came through and made move-in day as enjoyable as possible, with sweet treats from Rocky Point Ice Cream and cuddly surprises, thanks to Trans Pacific Trading.”

“Our building is coming to life more and more each day,” Kristy continued. “Seeing young people enjoying their new space is everything we dreamed about. We truly could not have achieved this milestone without the relentless support and unconditional love of everyone involved!”