Priscilla's Place: A place to breathe and belong 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.
After more than a decade living in Banff, AB, Em knows how hard it can be to find a good place to live.
“I’ve been here about 12 years,” they say. “Finding affordable housing is nearly impossible these days. Getting into this program was a game changer for me.”
Em works in retail management in town and has seen the housing challenges faced by long-term locals. “Banff has always been expensive, but in the last few years it’s become so much worse,” they explain.
For Em, moving into Priscilla’s Place, the YWCA Banff’s new affordable housing development supported by the Green Municipal Fund’s Sustainable Affordable Housing (SAH) initiative, marked a turning point.
“It’s the first time in my 12 years here that I can actually save money and put something aside. It just felt like a new chapter. A clean, well-cared-for building where everything works—that’s a big deal here.”
Comfort that feels reliable
Em has lived in many kinds of housing in Banff, such as shared staff accommodations and basement suites. They say the difference at Priscilla’s Place is striking. “It’s so easy to manage,” they say. “The air and heat system is fantastic. You can cool it down quickly in summer or keep it warm when it’s –40° out. That’s a nice change.”
The building’s insulation also makes a difference. “There are no drafts, and the windows are tight,” Em explains. “In my last place, half the heating didn’t work and the bathroom was freezing all winter. Here, everything just works the way it’s supposed to.”
That reliability means Em no longer worries about repairs or safety issues. “It’s nice not to have to chase down a landlord,” they say. “The housing manager and maintenance team here are really responsive. If something comes up, it’s dealt with right away. That kind of reliability takes a lot of stress away.”
Stability that changes everything
Banff’s housing market can be unpredictable; leases can end suddenly, and rent increases are common. For Em, the security of knowing their home is stable has been transformative. “I’m just not stressed about housing anymore,” they say. “That’s huge here. You never know when your landlord might sell their house or ask you to move out. Here, I can breathe.” Being able to plan ahead has allowed Em to start saving for the first time in years.
“It’s given me the chance to build some financial stability. Before, I was always just trying to keep up. Now I can actually think about what’s next.”
A place that supports belonging
Priscilla’s Place is pet-friendly, which made it possible for Em to bring their cat, Turnip. “Having pet-friendly housing in Banff is huge,” they say. “It makes you feel like you belong, like you’re supposed to be here. You’re not worried about getting kicked out or finding another place that will take you and your pet.”
The building also attracts many long-term locals, something Em appreciates. “It’s nice to know that there are others who’ve been here a long time and want to stay,” they say. “It makes the community feel more grounded.”
Room to grow and give back
With housing worries off their mind, Em has had more time to focus on hobbies and community work. “Before, I was working a lot just to afford rent,” they explain. “Now I know I can pay my bills, so I’ve been able to volunteer more and take on projects I care about.” Recently, Em served on the board for Banff Pride and continues to volunteer at local events. They’ve also rediscovered their love of crafting. “I crochet,” they say. “It’s relaxing. I finally have the time and space to do it.”
Looking ahead
For Em, affordable housing has created possibilities that once felt out of reach. “This is giving me the opportunity to plan my next chapter,” they say. “It’s the first time in a decade I’ve been able to think about moving somewhere new.”
As they prepare for a future move to Victoria, B.C., Em is grateful for what Priscilla’s Place made possible.
“This place gave me stability when I needed it most. It’s let me save, it’s reduced my stress, and it’s reminded me what home is supposed to feel like."
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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