This September 30th, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we are reminded that reconciliation is not a one-time event. It’s an ongoing commitment to face the truth of our shared history and to support Indigenous-led solutions. One of the most powerful forms of reconciliation is housing.
With that in mind, we want to highlight the work of our partner Hiy̓ám̓ ta Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Housing Society (Hiy̓ám̓ Housing).
The Local Reality
The housing need for Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) is urgent. Nationally, there are 440 dwellings per 1,000 people. On Squamish Nation lands there are only 166 dwellings per 1,000 Members. This shortage pushes many Squamish People out of their own community, disconnecting them from culture, family and land.
In 2023, 119 people were experiencing homelessness in Squamish, up from 107 in 2021. Alarmingly, 32% of those surveyed identified as Indigenous, despite representing only 3% of the Census population (2023 Point in Time Homeless Count.)
This disparity is not coincidental; it reflects generations of displacement and trauma caused by colonial systems.
A Squamish Solution
Squamish Nation Council has a bold and definitive goal: to house every Squamish person within a generation (25 years). In 2019, Squamish Nation Council created Hiy̓ám̓ Housing. The name Hiy̓ám̓ ta Sḵwx̱wú7mesh means “to return home or to come home.”
Hiy̓ám̓ Housing is a non-profit mandated to deliver 1,000 new homes for Squamish People to contribute to the Nation’s goal of housing ever Squamish Person within a generation. Today, they manage 282 homes with more planned in Squamish, the North Shore, and Vancouver.
Their work also includes essential programs like the Home Loan Program and Assistance with Rent Program, which support Squamish People across a spectrum of housing needs.
Housing That Heals
On Government Road, Hiy̓ám̓ Housing developed Eskékxwi7ch tl’a Sp’áḵw’us Place – The Gathering Place of Eagles. This 27-unit building provides supportive housing for vulnerable Squamish People, with priority given to women and children, Elders, and 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals.
The site offers culturally grounded, land-based programming and supports. Staff are trained in trauma-informed and decolonizing practices. This housing restores dignity and connection. To learn more visit: https://youtu.be/JWoj4VMRRQ8
Land Back, Homes Forward
In 2024, Housing Squamish partnered with Hiy̓ám̓ Housing to purchase Tantalus Manor. Tantalus Manor, located on Wilson Crescent, sits in a vibrant, well-connected neighbourhood, close to schools, transit, and other essential amenities. The majority of units in the building are two and three bedroom apartments, making it perfect for families. Current rents are about 50% below market rates, making it a vital asset for affordable housing in Squamish.
As a co-owner, Hiy̓ám̓ Housing provides financial and operational support and Housing Squamish manages the property, taking charge of the building’s operations and any necessary upgrades, while keeping rent below market rates. Hiy̓ám̓ Housing has first right to select tenants when vacancies arise in the building and up to half of the units are prioritized for Squamish Nation People. This collaboration ensures that the land remains under local stewardship.
The purchase of Tantalus Manor was a step toward a more inclusive and accessible housing market in Squamish.
A Path Forward Rooted in Home
Through bold leadership, cultural grounding, and a commitment to housing justice, Hiy̓ám̓ Housing are creating spaces where Squamish Nation People can return home, heal, and thrive. Their work is restoring connection, dignity, and the future of Sḵwx̱wú7mesh. Reconciliation must be rooted in truth, but it must also move us forward and housing is one of the most meaningful places to begin.
To learn more about Hiy̓ám̓ Housing visit them at hiyamhousing.com.
Photo Captions
Feature Photo: Coast Salish welcome figure.
Second Photo: Esḵéḵxwi7ch tl’a Sp’áḵw’us Place on Government Road
Third Photo: 08-22-2024 – Christine Baker TlatlaKwot (Board Chair. Hiy̓ám̓ Housing), Donalene Rapada (CEO, Hiy̓ám̓ Housing), Sarah Ellis (Housing Squamish). Sxwixwtn Wilson Williams, Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw Spokesperson and Council Member (back right), Tantalus Manor Resident (left).