HONOUR HOUSE

Canadian troops have served in Afghanistan since 2002, with more than 25,000 men and women having completed at least one tour of duty. More than 130 Canadians have been killed in this conflict and more than 1,100 have been injured.

In October 2006, the Royal United Services Institute of Vancouver sponsored a benefit concert, in support of the BC Mainland Military Family Resource Center, titled “Salute To Our Troops In Afghanistan”. This event focused attention on the needs of our troops – both those serving overseas, and those returning home. In particular, it helped to raise awareness about injured or wounded soldiers receiving care or rehabilitation in Vancouver area medical facilities; and the difficulty they and their families have in finding temporary housing during their period of care. At present, there is no suitable residential facility in Vancouver to accommodate our Veterans and their families.

A similar situation is faced by families of first responders – i.e., fire, police and ambulance personnel – who are injured in the line of duty.

The vision of Honour House Society is to establish a residence for our Canadian Forces Veterans and first responders, which along with our partners in the hotel industry will provide free, temporary housing when they or their families require hospitalization in the Vancouver area. This type of accommodation is essential for relieving both emotional and financial stress in times of difficulty.

Due to the high cost and limited supply of rental housing in Vancouver, there is an urgent need for this type of specialized accommodation for Veterans, first responders, and their families. Honour House Society is committed to building a new residence to be called “Honour House” in recognition of our Canadian Forces Veterans and first responders.

THE PLAN

The vision for this facility is a two-level building of approximately 10,000 sq.ft., comprising up to 12 furnished suites, with communal kitchen, dining and living areas, a library, a ‘quiet’ room or chapel area, a consultation room and an administrative office.

Since its establishment in August 2008, Honour House Society has received tremendous support for this project – including donated architectural and legal services, and in-kind donations of building supplies, equipment, furnishings, and landscaping.

The goal of Honour House Society is to design and build a facility that meets its goal of providing a refuge and place of composure for the families of our wounded and injured soldiers and first responders to stay during treatment and recuperation.

The total cost for creating Honour House is estimated at $3.0 million. Annual operating and maintenance costs for Honour House will be the sole responsibility of the Society.

DONATIONS

Housing is needed for injured Vet’s families. HHS is fund raising for the $2 million it needs to build the facility.

Donate now http://honourhouse.ca/donate.html