SQUAMISH, B.C. — The Squamish Community Housing Society (Housing Squamish) submitted its first annual report to the District of Squamish, highlighting significant progress toward its goal of having 300 affordable homes underway by 2029.
Since launching in 2023, Housing Squamish used just under $1.5 million in District contributions to attract nearly $11 million in partner funding, with additional investments anticipated in early 2026.
Key accomplishments this year include:
- Advanced plans for 100 affordable homes for families and seniors at Government Road in the Northyards. This included a funding application to BC Housing’s Community Housing Fund.
- Advanced plans for an energy retrofit at Tantalus Manor and applied to CMHC’s Canada Greener Affordable Housing Program for up to $5.5 million.
- Fully leased eight family homes at Highline, including three for single-parent households.
- Partnered with Diamond Head Development to lease 34 below-market rental homes at the Artemis on Finch Drive.
- Submitted offers to purchase two rental apartment buildings and strengthened relationships with funders for future acquisitions.
- Strengthened internal capacity, approved core governance and financial policies, and completed the Society’s first audited financial statements.
One year into our five-year partnership with the District, Housing Squamish has 100 homes in the planning phase and 48 homes under management, including 40 owned in partnership with Hiy̓ám̓ Housing. The Society gained critical insight into financing, delivery models, and long-term housing strategies that will shape future work.
Access to land remains a key barrier to moving projects forward. Shifting real estate and senior-government funding conditions also create both challenges and opportunities. Early engagement from the District on land use, partnerships, and discussions with developers, will support Housing Squamish in advancing new projects.
“Creating affordable housing takes time, strong partnerships, creativity, and resources,” said Sarah Ellis, Executive Director. “There’s no silver bullet. With patience and a long-term focus, we are laying the foundation for housing that will serve Squamish residents for generations.”
Looking ahead, Housing Squamish will continue to expand capacity, pursue strategic acquisitions and developments, and contribute to District policy development by sharing our operational experience with implementing District housing agreements. With continued support from the District, partners, and community, the Society is well-positioned to deliver real housing solutions for Squamish.
About Housing Squamish
Housing Squamish is Squamish’s not-for-profit housing provider with a mission to increase housing options to support a resilient, diverse and equitable community. We do this by bringing more affordable housing to Squamish, coordinating and improving collaboration and partnership opportunities in Squamish as related to housing, and sharing information, engaging and advocating for housing. To learn more and sign up for our newsletter, please visit: housingsquamish.ca.
Sarah Ellis,
Executive Director