Priscilla's Place: Peace of mind and a place to call home in Banff
SUSTAINABLE AFFORDABLE HOUSING
New construction of sustainable affordable housing
This article is part of a series called How energy-efficient affordable housing is improving the lives of Canadians. The series features the inspiring stories of six Canadians who are living comfortably and saving money thanks to energy-efficient affordable housing.
At the resident’s request for privacy, their name has been changed and identifying information has been removed.
When Robin first moved into Priscilla’s Place, the new affordable housing complex built and operated by YWCA Banff, they weren’t sure what to expect.
“Before I moved in, I thought the apartments might be a little small,” they recall. “But once I settled in, I realized how well designed they are. You can fit everything you need.”
After several years in Banff, AB, Robin knows how challenging housing can be. They’ve lived in crowded staff accommodations, older rentals with difficult landlords, and shared homes that were expensive and unpredictable. “Like a lot of people who live here, I’ve faced housing challenges: cramped spaces, rising costs, and uncertainty about how long I could stay,” they say. That uncertainty ended when Robin moved to Priscilla’s Place.
“It’s the most consistent and well-managed place I’ve ever lived.”
A quiet, comfortable home
Robin works in both Banff and nearby Canmore, AB, often spending long days outdoors. Coming home to a peaceful, well-built space, he they say, is something they don’t take for granted. “It’s nice and quiet here,” Robin says. “The temperature control is fantastic—cool in the summer, warm in the winter—and it just feels solid. You can tell it’s really well built.”
That comfort carries through every season. “When it’s freezing outside, you come home and it’s warm. When it’s hot, you come home and it’s cool,” they say. “You don’t have to think about it—it just works.”
They also appreciate how thoughtfully the building supports residents’ everyday needs. “There’s a separate storage area for bikes and snowboards, which is perfect for Banff life,” they say. “You don’t have to drag your gear through the apartment or worry about where to put it.”
Predictability that reduces stress
One of the biggest differences Robin has noticed is financial stability. “All the utilities are included, so I know exactly what I’m paying each month,” they say. “It makes budgeting really easy, and I don’t have to stress about bills going up in the winter.”
That predictability has a ripple effect. “It takes a lot of pressure off. When you’re not worrying about rent increases or hidden costs, you can focus on work, on enjoying life, and on actually being part of the community.”
Robin also values how YWCA Banff keeps residents informed about energy use and conservation. “They send reminders to be mindful of water and power,” they say. “It’s small things like that that help everyone do their part.”
A place that supports well-being
For Robin, stable and affordable housing has had a clear impact on their mental health.
“The biggest thing is stability. You’re not wondering if your landlord is going to sell or raise the rent. You can just breathe a bit easier.”
That sense of security has allowed them to focus on the things that make living in Banff special. “I can actually enjoy being outdoors now,” they say. “I go biking after work, I can afford a gym membership, and I have space to keep all my gear organized.”
Robin says having a pet-friendly building has also made a big difference. Their dog has become part of their daily rhythm. “Finding pet-friendly housing in Banff is really hard,” they say. “Knowing I could have him here was a huge relief. He’s ten now, and we go everywhere together.”
Gratitude for good management
Robin is quick to credit YWCA Banff for the way they run the building. “They’re professional, respectful, and easy to reach if something comes up,” they say. “They really care about the residents. You have your independence, but you also know there’s support if you need it.”
After years of uncertainty, that reliability means a lot.
“It’s rare to find a place that’s affordable, comfortable, and well-managed. I feel really lucky to live here.”
Pricillia’s Place was developed by YWCA Banff and supported by the Green Municipal Fund’s Sustainable Affordable Housing (SAH) initiative.
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