It Takes a Village

Low-income seniors living in Nanaimo Affordable Housing Society (NAHS) complexes claim a range of issues have emerged, from a decline in building maintenance to disruptions and cuts to some support services. The tenants say NAHS is putting money over their well-being.

To investigate, reporter Julie Chadwick interviews dozens of tenants, former board members and employees, and combs through piles of tenancy documents, contracts and meeting minutes. Along the way, she discovers some incredible stories of resilience and friendship.

Read our series, It Takes a Village. Sign up for our Nanaimo newsletter to be the first to read the next story. Got a tip? Contact julie@thediscourse.ca

Ballenas Housing Society recently opened an apartment complex in Parksville, with the new brand displayed on banners.
Nanaimo Affordable Housing Society name change to Ballenas ‘in discussion’ for years,’ says CEO
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Nanaimo
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August 10, 2023
The name change follows a months-long investigation by The Discourse into allegations of bullying and mistreatment of older, low-income tenants.
Reporter Julie Chadwick and advocate Roxy Noble sit at a table looking out at participants during a speaking session
10 ways to better support tenants with vulnerabilities due to income, age or disabilities
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Nanaimo
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January 19, 2023
The Discourse recently brought tenants together to brainstorm community-based solutions. Here’s what we learned.
‘I want it to stop’: Tenants and advocates allege bullying by non-profit housing provider
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Nanaimo
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December 16, 2022
Nanaimo Affordable Housing Society harassed and bullied residents, removed unauthorized funds from their accounts, older tenants say.
A building entrance way shows the words Corlett Place
Q and A: What are vulnerable tenants rights in non-profit housing?
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Nanaimo
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December 16, 2022
The Discourse sat down with Robert Patterson, lawyer at the non-profit Tenant Resource and Advisory Centre (TRAC).
A four storey building stands tall from the opposite side of the street as cars go by.
Who will protect low-income seniors from dying in extreme heat?
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Nanaimo
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September 1, 2022
This public-interest lawyer has ‘very little confidence’ in the government’s response, and is calling for tenant-led solutions.
A blonde senior raises a hand a knock on the front door of a patio-style complex.
Seniors left in distress — or dead — for days in Nanaimo Affordable Housing Society units
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Nanaimo
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August 18, 2022
Tenants and advocates are calling for the reinstatement of wellness checks and other safety measures to prevent residents lying injured or dying alone.

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