Housing affordability has become a critical issue across Canada, particularly in the Metro Vancouver region. The City of New Westminster works to keep housing affordable and accessible to its residents through a range of award-winning initiatives, including its Family Friendly Housing policy, Secured Market Rental Housing policy, and Laneway and Carriage Houses program. Its Rent Bank also serves as an innovative solution that supports residents to maintain their housing and prevents the incidence of homelessness in the community.