NEWS RELEASE
For immediate release
May 20, 2025
Greater Victoria Housing Society Wins National Award for Community Housing Project
Esquimalt, BC – The Greater Victoria Housing Society (GVHS) is pleased to announce that it has received the Canadian Housing & Renewal Association Outstanding Development Award. CEO Virginia Holden was on hand to receive the award at the recent CHRA National Congress on Housing and Homelessness in Saskatoon.
This award honors organizations that create innovative community housing projects that meet local needs. The Lions at Fleming project was recognized for its positive impact on the community, its creative features, and its focus on sustainability. This project is providing 137 new homes for residents in Esquimalt, including family units.
“We are very proud to receive this award,” said Virginia Holden. “It reflects the hard work of our staff and partners who helped make The Lions at Fleming a reality. This project addresses the urgent housing needs in our community and sets a great example for future developments.”
The Lions at Fleming is designed to enhance community living, featuring innovative aspects that improve residents’ quality of life while promoting eco-friendly practices. The building is constructed to exceed both Passive House standards and the BC Energy Step Code 4 and is a zero-emission building, as it uses a heat pump hot water system. This project shows our commitment to building inclusive and supportive environments for everyone.
We congratulate our staff and partners for their dedication in bringing this successful project to life, which is making a real difference in Esquimalt.
For more information about the Greater Victoria Housing Society and The Lions at Fleming project, please visit www.greatervichousing.org/
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Media contact & interview requests:
Vanessa Schneider
Manager of Communications and Engagement
Greater Victoria Housing Society
(250) 661-8304
[email protected]
