November is Edmonton Housing Month – an annual campaign to raise awareness about the importance of safe, quality housing in the Capital Region and a time to reflect on what “home” truly means. Throughout the month, Homeward Trust Edmonton, in partnership with local organizations, will host a series of webinars featuring housing solutions and supportive programs across the city.
With a 90% client satisfaction rate, GEF is proud to contribute to these efforts by helping seniors find that sense of home through affordable housing and support that enables them to live with dignity and thrive in their communities.
For 66-year-old Ted W., moving into GEF Strathcona Place earlier this year finally gave him the security and comfort he’d been searching for.
A Fresh Start
Ted had lived in many places over the years, but none ever felt like home. Shared accommodations were inconvenient and uncomfortable, and a short-lived apartment in St. Paul turned out to be unsafe and expensive.
“A friend had told me to look into affordable housing options for seniors, but there was a stigma for me. I hated to admit that I needed help, but I realized that living the way I was wasn’t working anymore. It was very difficult.”
~ Ted W., Strathcona Place
After years of unstable housing, Ted finally has a place where he feels safe, settled, and connected.
“I love living here! The building is clean, ideally situated for walks, and there’s always someone to talk to. I haven’t been able to truly call a place home in 15 years, so it’s a really good feeling. Nicole at GEF was very helpful and made the process seamless.”
~ Ted W., Strathcona Place
Supporting Seniors
Nicole Davis, Ted’s GEF Housing Placement Coordinator, sees firsthand the growing demand for more affordable housing options for older adults. With over 1,300 seniors currently on GEF’s waitlist, the housing application system prioritizes need.
“Every human deserves to feel safely housed. When people feel safe, they can thrive. GEF uses the Social Housing Accommodation Regulation (SHAR) scoring system to determine placement and priority. The waitlist is based on need. We serve our communities’ most vulnerable first.”
~ Nicole Davis, Housing Placement Coordinator, GEF Seniors Housing
This year, GEF expanded its Housing and Outreach teams to better support seniors – from applying for housing, to the move-in transition, and connecting them with the resources they need to thrive.
With that support, Ted has settled in and now enjoys the simple pleasures of cooking, meeting neighbours, and decorating his space one piece at a time.
“I feel like I can actually have a life! You know the term nesting? That’s what I’m doing now. Getting to slowly buy things, bring them back here, and decorate my place – it feels like home to me.”
~ Ted W., Strathcona Place
Recently, Ted sent a heartfelt note to Nicole to share just how much this move has meant to him:
Home and Community
This Housing Month, we’re highlighting Ted’s story – a reminder of why home, stability, and community matter. We’re grateful for the trust our residents and tenants place in us. Their feedback inspires us to keep listening, learning, and finding new ways to strengthen our communities for the seniors who call GEF home.
Visit gef.org for more information on our housing options and resources to help navigate the application process.
I hope to find a place to call home!
LikeLiked by you
Ted's story sounds wonderful. I too am senior living in affordable housing that does not feel like home. I am in the search for a better home.
LikeLiked by you