At age 77, Maurice’s life changed dramatically. After decades of independence—including 25 years in the same apartment and running a successful greeting card business—a series of strokes left him hospitalized for several months. When he finally regained his speech and his health stabilized, Maurice was discharged not to home, but to a homeless shelter.

It was there that he was connected to Seniors Services Society of BC (SSSBC)—a referral that would become a turning point. His shelter worker recognized that Maurice’s medical vulnerability, housing instability, and sudden loss of independence required urgent, specialized support.

At SSSBC, a Housing Navigator completed a comprehensive assessment to understand not only his housing needs, but the health, financial, and emotional challenges he was facing. Recognizing the urgency of his situation, his case was expedited and referred to the Temporary Housing Program (THP). Over the next five months, the Navigator and an Outreach Worker advocated intensively on Maurice’s behalf—navigating waitlists, coordinating care, and ensuring his voice and preferences were heard.

Their efforts resulted in life-changing news: Maurice secured permanent, affordable housing in a non-profit seniors’ community in Vancouver, the neighbourhood he longed to remain part of. After months of uncertainty, he finally had a safe, stable home—one that supported his recovery and allowed him to rebuild his sense of dignity and belonging.

Maurice never forgot what that support meant.

Once housed and safe, he began visiting Seniors Services Society every year to give back. His donations started modestly—$5 at a time—but steadily grew to $25, then $50 or more, always offered with gratitude. Beyond financial contributions, Maurice gave something equally meaningful: his time. Drawing from his own experiences, he compiled a detailed resource binder for seniors across the Lower Mainland, addressing gaps he had personally encountered. He presented it to SSSBC as a thank-you, hoping it would help others navigate challenges more easily than he had.

When Maurice passed away in 2023, he designated funds in his will to both the Seniors Services Society of BC and the Salvation Army—a final act of care rooted in his belief that no senior should face a housing crisis alone.

Today, we are profoundly honoured by Maurice’s legacy. Through his gift, SSSBC and Salvation Army have named and fully funded a Rapid Access housing unit at Salvation Army for the next two years, ensuring quick, compassionate support for seniors experiencing urgent housing crises—people just like Maurice once was.

Maurice’s generosity will continue to open doors, restore stability, and offer hope to those navigating their most vulnerable moments.

Thank you, Maurice. Your gift will live on in every life touched by the safety, dignity, and community you made possible for others.

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