Nearly 250 Indigenous housing spaces coming to East Vancouver

In partnership with the City of Vancouver, the federal and B.C. governments, and other non-profits, 248 new Indigenous housing spaces are coming to East Vancouver through a $97 million development along East Hastings Street.

In an announcement at the breaking ground ceremony Thursday, B.C. Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon explained the new two-tower development in Vancouver’s Strathcona neighbourhood will provide a mix of 143 permanent low- to middle-income housing rentals, 25 supportive housing units, and 80 shelter spaces, all to be operated by the Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre Society (VAFCS).

“This building will be able to meet the needs of everyone in the area, no matter their income. What’s better is that this is Indigenous-led with homes targeted for Indigenous people in the community, meaning people who live here in the community, the teachers, the small business owners, the first responders, and more, can stay here where they live and work close to their friends, their loved ones and culture,” Kahlon said.

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The building complex, to be named Ho’-kee-melh Kloshe Lum which means “to gather, good spirits,” will also include gathering and ceremonial areas and spaces for Indigenous artwork and installations.

“Our province and our communities are in desperate need of more affordable housing options like the one we’re announcing today. Today’s announcement is a huge step forward. But we know that there is so much more work to do. Our government is committed to doing the hard work.”

The province says two social enterprises — a cafe and a bike shop — will also be part of the complex.

“I would like to thank our many project partners, including the Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre, the City of Vancouver, and the federal government for coming together on such a diverse new building,” said Vancouver-Mount Pleasant MLA Joan Phillip.

“I look forward to seeing the doors open on these new homes so Indigenous families, elders, and individuals can stay close to their community where their families and friends surround them.”

The province says Ho’-kee-melh Kloshe Lum is slated to be completed in late 2025.