A unique community partnership has led to 64 new, affordable homes in Chilliwack.
The Ministry of Housing and Municipal Affairs announced on July 30 that Cedar Lá:lém is now open, at the corner of Spadina Avenue and Main Street.
The affordable housing project was envisioned by the members of Cheam View United Church. The church, built in 1908, was demolished in 2024. The church contributed the land, valued at about $3 million, and will retain ownership of the land. They are leasing the building over for a “nominal rate” to Mamele’awt Qweesome Housing Society (MQHS) for a 60-year term, and will use the ground floor for their own purposes.
The new homes, are intended for individuals and families with low incomes, including Indigenous people and Elders.
“Together with local government and community partners, we’re providing housing options so people can afford to live where they work, raise their families and stay connected to the places they call home,” said Christine Boyle, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs. “This community-centred housing creates stability, helps build stronger ties and opens opportunities for people who want to build a life in the heart of Chilliwack.”
The project is the result of a partnership between Cheam View United Church, the Province, the City of Chilliwack, Mamele’awt Qweesome Housing Society (MQHS), and Aboriginal Housing Management Association (AHMA). It was funded through the Community Housing Fund.
The building is six storeys and offers one- and two-bedroom homes — including five accessible homes — and it will provide a residential amenity space.
“The City of Chilliwack is pleased to have been able to waive over $1 million in fees to support this project,” said Chilliwack Mayor Ken Popove. “The development of Cedar Lá:lém supports the city’s Homelessness Action Plan goal to increase the supply of affordable housing across the housing continuum, providing more safe, affordable homes for low-income families and individuals in the community.”
The ministry said the project was created quicker due to the partnership.
MQHS is a non-profit Indigenous housing society, which brings a first-hand understanding of housing needs in the Fraser Valley, the minister said in its release. MQHS’s work involves developing, managing and administering housing and support programs in the region, primarily for Indigenous people.
The project is part of a $19-billion housing investment by the B.C. government — the largest housing investment in British Columbia’s history, the ministry added.
“As an Indigenous organization, we know that strong communities are built through relationships,” said Randy Reber, CEO of MQHS. “Cedar Lá:lém is the result of meaningful partnerships with Cheam View United Church, BC Housing, the City of Chilliwack, AHMA and many others who shared a vision of creating safe, affordable homes where people can belong and build brighter futures.”
Margaret Pfoh, CEO of AHMA was also quoted in the release.
“We raise our hands to the Mamele’awt Qweesome Housing Society team,” she said. “The Cedar Lá:lém building is an important new addition of safe, affordable community housing in Chilliwack. Dedicated support for urban Indigenous Elders, youth, families and individuals in British Columbia is provided almost exclusively by AHMA members, like MQHS. We need more projects like this, with sustained investment and long-term commitment. Today is a celebration, and also a reminder that the work continues.”
The Province, through BC Housing, contributed approximately $29 million to the project, including a grant of approximately $10 million through the Community Housing Fund. MQHS contributed $1 million in cash equity. BC Housing will provide MQHS with approximately $922,000 in annual operating funding.