Benvenuti - Welcome to Casa Serena

Casa Serena is a facility for independent living seniors built on the land occupied by the Italian Cultural Centre and is part of the Italian Village. It is operated by the Italian Cultural Centre Senior Citizens Housing Society and is subsidized by B.C. Housing.

Our History

Casa Serena was one of the dreams of our Italian community when in 1977 the Italian Cultural Centre was built and started working towards the other phases which were to occupy the 8 acres purchased from the City of Vancouver.

The Italian Cultural Centre Senior Citizens Housing Society, a non-profit organization, was incorporated and the leased portion of land occupied by Casa Serena opened its doors in 1987.

The Inauguration Ceremony took place on April 29th at 2:00pm with opening remarks and presentations from Anna Terrana and Premier Bill Vander Zalm. Father Rosaia from San Frances Church blessed the home and tenants, preceded by the speeches of representatives from the various governments: Benno Friesen, M.P. for the Federal government, Mr. Gordon Campbell, Mayor of Vancouver, Mr. Ian Leman, Manager of BC Housing Management Commission for the provincial government, and Ald. Ralph Caravetta for the City of Vancouver. Also present were the Consul General of Italy Dr. G. Manigrassi and the President of the Italian Cultural Centre, Mr. Andreino Citton.

Casa Serena is now engaging to explore the opportunity to create social, physical and educational programs for its tenants and the community at large to keep them active and engaged, while fostering new partnerships.

Casa Serena offers 90 apartments to seniors who are over 60 years old. Four of the units are for people with minor disability challenges and are open to people who are over 55 years old.