Supporting Tenants Enabling Pathways (STEP)

The STEP program provides supports before, during, and after a tenant move.

Step 1: Get a referral

STEP is by referral only (including self-referral), voluntary, and choice based.

People currently living in supportive housing that are interested and ready to move on are referred to STEP by our partnering agencies, BC Housing, and Vancouver Coastal Health. 

Referrals are assessed, and those eligible are connected with the STEP housing team.

Step 2: Create a plan

With the help from the STEP housing team, the participant will develop a plan, and gain access to resources and support to move to independent and affordable housing.

Step 3: Move to independent housing

Once the participant is moved into independent housing, the STEP team continues to be available to resolve concerns that may arise and support a successful tenancy.

Step 4: Vacated units are re-tenanted

Once a supportive housing unit is vacated, it can be tenanted by a person experiencing homelessness who requires support to maintain stable housing.

Supportive housing is a critical resource for people who are experiencing, or are at risk of, homelessness and require support to connect to community resources and maintain housing stability. Demand for supportive housing is high, and people experiencing homelessness often wait a long time for access.

By helping tenants move into independent homes when they’re ready, the STEP program:

• Frees up supportive housing units and shelter spaces for people who need them
• Increases access to stable housing
• Improves quality of life for participants
• Supports our goals to expand housing options across Vancouver

Benefits for housing providers

• Tenant suitability: STEP pre-screens and refers applicants that meet the program mandates of the housing provider.
• Long-term stability: STEP clients have strong housing outcomes, with a 90% one-year retention rate.
• Financial reliability: STEP supports tenants with income reviews and accessing government income benefits.
• Positive references: All candidates are assessed and come with positive landlord and support agency references.
• Communication and ongoing support: STEP provides regular check-ins and ongoing support to housing providers and tenants throughout the entirety of tenancy.

Benefits for tenants

• Connection to the team of STEP housing team who assist with housing applications
• Access to funding to support tenant transition expenses and moving (pending eligibility)
• Support with housing paperwork and annual income reviews
• Ongoing check‑ins after moving
• Connections to health and community services.