A seniors home for gays and lesbians in the East Vancouver neighbourhood of Mount Pleasant could be the first of its kind in Canada.

So far, the project is nothing more than a proposal, but already more than 30 people have plunked down a $1,000 deposit since it was first advertised two weeks ago, according to the U.S. developer.

Joan Ford says she and her partner hope to buy into the development of the Mount Pleasant seniors home, seeing it as an investment in their future well-being.
(CBC)

The plan is for a condo development featuring living units, a communal dining room, a fitness centre, a lounge and cabaret.

Dean Malone, the president of Plum Living Properties, said the proposal for Vancouver will fill a community need. His company has already completed a similar project in New Mexico and has others underway in San Francisco and Palm Springs.

"Gays and lesbians, especially in the [baby] boomer age … are interested as they age to be with people who at least have come common interests … and this type of community is something that they're looking for," said Malone.

Joan Ford and her partner, who hope to eventually buy into the development, see it as an investment in their future well-being, since, like many gays and lesbians, they regard health care as one area where they still face discrimination.

"I don't want to have to face going back into the closet because there's someone looking after me who's homophobic," said Ford.

The developer said the condos will cater to gay and lesbian seniors but anyone can purchase a unit.

The plan is for 150 suites, to be sold for the going market price, said Malone, adding that construction could begin in 2010.

With files from Kirk Williams, CBC-TV