Hope-area First Nation breaks ground on 31-unit housing project meant to bring band members home

HOPE – Chawathil First Nation in Hope broke ground last week on a 31-unit affordable housing project offering units of up to five bedrooms.

In a statement from Chawathil First Nation Chief Aaron Pete, the band says the housing development consists of four buildings offering a mix of one to five-bedroom units for Chawathil FN members.

“This is a historic moment for Chawathil First Nation. For the first time in 20 years, we are building new homes for our members, and for the first time, those homes will be built to BC Building Code with ongoing support for maintenance and operations,” Chief Pete said. “Chief and Council made a commitment to bring more housing to our community, and this project is the first major step in fulfilling that promise—with more homes on the way. This development will make life more affordable, reduce overcrowding, bring members home, and create a stronger sense of community through family housing, Elders housing, and shared amenity spaces.

Located in Schkam IR No. 2 in Hope, the development has a stated goal of bringing Chawathil Nation members home and incorporating design elements to foster culture and community. The new housing will include larger family-oriented homes, Elders-specific housing, indoor and outdoor gathering areas, and opportunities for Indigenous artwork and installations.

“Working in partnership with First Nations is essential to delivering housing that reflects the unique needs and priorities of each community,” said Christine Boyle, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs. “These new homes for Chawathil Nation members will provide safe, affordable housing for Elders and families, strengthen community connections and support long-term well-being.”

The province is providing about $11.9 million in grant funding, as well as approximately $11.6 million in construction financing, through the Indigenous Housing Fund at BC Housing to support Chawathil as it strives to meet their housing goals.

Chawathil First Nation members are pictured during a historic groundbreaking ceremony last week. (Image Credit: Alex Harte Photography. 

Chief Pete says Chawathil is grateful to their partners for making this long-awaited project possible. The band has partnered with Fraser-East Affordable Housing Society, a local non-profit housing operator, to operate the new homes.

The new homes are expected to open and welcome members back to the community in 2028.