YWCA Banff: Building stability and community through affordable housing
SUSTAINABLE AFFORDABLE HOUSING
New construction of sustainable affordable housing
Case Study
This article is part of a series called Transforming communities with Sustainable Affordable Housing. The series demonstrates how energy-efficient, community-centered housing can foster resilience and well-being. Discover practical solutions for affordable, climate-friendly homes that improve lives and build a sustainable future.
In the heart of Banff, Alberta, YWCA Banff’s Courtyard Project—now called Priscilla’s Place—has transformed the lives of its residents. Completed in late 2022, this net-zero, pet-friendly complex offers more than just housing. It provides security and a fresh start for those in need, fostering dignity, stability, and community. Supported by the Green Municipal Fund’s (GMF) Sustainable Affordable Housing (SAH) initiative, Priscilla’s Place demonstrates how sustainable affordable housing can be a game-changer.
A new beginning for residents
Priscilla’s Place fills a critical gap in Banff’s housing crisis, providing 33 energy-efficient units to individuals and families facing difficult circumstances. “We’ve been in a housing crisis forever,” said Ebony Rempel, CEO of YWCA Banff. “And it’s not just a lack of housing—it’s about having suitable, safe and quality spaces.”
For some residents, Priscilla’s Place is the first stable home they’ve had in years. “There was one couple who were sleeping in their car the week before they moved in,” shared Rempel. “We were rearranging space in our facility just to store people’s furniture and luggage because they’d ended their previous housing arrangements and had nowhere to go.”
In her role as CEO, Rempel doesn’t typically oversee move-ins, but the urgency of the housing crisis called for all hands on deck. “I was doing a walk-through with a woman moving into her unit, and as I was showing her the space, the doorknob fell off the closet,” she recalled with a laugh. “I told her, ‘Don’t worry, we’ll get that fixed.’ But she just looked at me and said, ‘I don’t care about that—where do I sign?’” Rempel reflected on how moments like this underline the transformative impact of having a place to call home: “It was the first time she’d ever been on the lease of her own place.”
Sustainable design for lasting resilience
Priscilla’s Place is not just affordable housing—it’s designed with sustainability in mind. The building features energy-efficient elements, including heat recovery ventilation and modular construction, helping reduce utility costs and minimize environmental impact. The pet-friendly design, bike storage facilities and proximity to trails and public transit align with Banff’s active, sustainable lifestyle, ensuring residents enjoy both affordability, convenience and comfort. For example, the bike storage room—large enough to accommodate all 33 units—is consistently packed, while the parking lot remains largely empty.
“It’s a reflection of how people here live—close to nature, with a strong focus on sustainability,” Rempel observed.
Overwhelming demand and lessons learned
YWCA Banff was surprised by the overwhelming response to the project. “We held an online info session during the pandemic, expecting a small turnout,” Rempel recalled. “Hundreds of people showed up, and applications flooded in.” Priscilla’s Place filled quickly, but the high demand underscored the need for continued housing development in the region.
Balancing high demand with the organization’s mission to serve the most vulnerable was a challenge. “We care deeply about supporting those most in need, but that also meant having to say no to others,” said Rempel. “That was tough—it really brought home how limited affordable housing options are in our community.”
A foundation for stability and independence
At Priscilla’s Place, residents are welcome to stay as long as they need. “Our model is about creating sustainable, permanent housing,” explained Rempel. “We’re not in the business of unhousing people. If someone’s income exceeds the income threshold, we help them transition into independent living.”
The building’s location next to a daycare has created additional opportunities for residents to build community and support each other.
“One resident babysits her friend’s daughter during an overlap between daycare hours,” Rempel shared. “It’s those little connections that make a big difference.”
Future plans and growing impact
Priscilla’s Place is just the beginning for YWCA Banff. The organization is planning two major projects: a renovation of its main building—the former Mineral Springs Hospital—and a new development in Canmore called Higher Ground. “Higher Ground will be a mix of affordable housing, a women’s shelter, and community hub spaces for social services,” said Rempel. “We’re working with the Town of Canmore to make it a reality.”
Reflecting on Priscilla’s Place, Rempel emphasized how much the organization has learned. “The build was stressful—we faced cost escalations and delays during the pandemic—but we got through it. Now, we have the confidence to do more. Building affordable, sustainable housing isn’t easy, but it’s worth it.”
A model for community and sustainability
Priscilla’s Place shows how affordable housing can be both sustainable and community-centered. It’s not just a building; it’s a lifeline for people who need it most.
“This project has been really incredible—for the residents and for us as an organization. Many of the people moving in have faced tough circumstances, and giving them a space that’s safe, beautiful, and affordable has been really special.”
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