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An Interview with a Housing Advocate

A woman with short light brown hair is wearing a navy blue top and a black cardigan, smiling gently at the camera against a plain white background.

By: Lauren Simpson

Why do you want to live on your own?

I have ongoing support from my mom, dad, and sister. However, I want to live on my own. I believe people cannot live with their parents forever and deserve to have their own homes.

Why is affordable housing important?

It is important because it is affordable for everyone. It is in the communities where people live. UNITI has good teams for housing people with disabilities. We always make it happen. I advocate for single parents,  their families,  seniors, and all people with disabilities.

Why do you want to live in South Surrey?

I’ve lived there my whole life. My parents’ home is two blocks away from Harmony. I love living in South Surrey. Everything is nearby in my community. My favourite restaurants are all there. I like to walk and take the bus easily wherever I need to go.

How did you help Harmony?

I’m a part of the Campaign Leadership Team for UNITI. I have:

  • Advocated for affordable housing at Public Hearings because I am a housing advocate. Once, I stayed there until 2 in the morning and found out that Harmony was approved.
  • Attended and spoke at housing conferences, like…
    • BC Non-Profit Housing Association for 3 years in a row
  • Been a speaker at the groundbreaking ceremony for Harmony
  • Been featured in Lauren’s Story Documentary Parts 1 and 2
  • Taken my business cards with me, and I talk about Harmony to people when I attend networking events
  • Participated in a Video for Harmony’s Campaign Update
  • Done Interviews and have written newspaper articles about Harmony

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