On June 21, 2023, around 10:30 a.m. we experienced a fire at Burnham Place, which is located across the street from our head office in the Mount Pleasant community.

Tenants and staff were immediately evacuated from the building and have been offered a safe space and meal at our Clubhouse across the street.  We have also mobilized our Outreach Services team to support clients.

Our thoughts go out to one of our residents who is now recovering in hospital with smoke inhalation.

There was water damage caused by engaging the internal sprinkler system of the building. A few tenants have been relocated temporarily to other facilities while repairs are completed. Everyone else has been able to return to their apartments.

A fire Investigation is now in progress to determine the cause of the fire.

Safety is a top priority for our organizations.  We have specific emergency safety protocols in place at each building and staff are training on how to respond.  We are very proud of the quick thinking and response of our staff in assisting tenant in this emergency situation.

About Burnham Place:

Burnham Place is a supported housing development located in the Mount Pleasant community. This apartment building is operated by Coast Mental Health, which provides 68 homes and supports to people at risk of experiencing homelessness. Priority populations include women, Indigenous peoples, and people experiencing unsheltered homelessness in the neighbourhood.

The City of Vancouver purchased this site with funding from the Federal government’s Rapid Housing Initiative. BC Housing provides operating funding for the building.

 

Media Contact:

Susan Hancock
Senior Manager, Communications & Community Development
M: 604-230-2267
E: susan.hancock@coastmentalhealth.com