VANCOUVER – Construction has begun on an Indigenous-led and focused development in Vancouver that brings nearly 170 mixed-use homes and 80 shelter beds to the Downtown Eastside.
The building, named Ho’-kee-melh Kloshe Lum, which means “to gather, good spirits,” is located at 1015 East Hastings St. and will be a mixed-use development across two concrete towers with 143 low- to moderate-income rentals, 25 supportive housing units and 80 shelter beds. All the homes and shelter spaces will be operated by the Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre Society (VAFCS).
“This expansive new development will provide a variety of housing options that will help meet the diverse needs of the Downtown Eastside community,” said B.C. Minister of Housing Ravi Kahlon in a statement.
The development will prioritize Indigenous residents and will “incorporate design elements to foster culture and community. This will include larger family-oriented homes, gathering and ceremonial areas, and space allotted for Indigenous artwork and installations,” a release said.
Two social enterprise spaces are planned and will feature a café and bike shop, both operated by VAFCS.
The project will also include courtyard access, a rooftop multi-purpose room with a shared kitchen and landscaped area, and a multi-level day centre with a range of services available, such as lounge areas, a library, an art studio and counselling spaces, the release stated.
The province has committed $57.27 million to the project through BC Housing, including approximately $34 million through the Supportive Housing Fund and $23 million in Affordable Rental Housing grant funding.
The federal government is putting in approximately $22 million, including $19 million in co-investment funding through the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation and $3 million from the Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund.
The City of Vancouver contributed approximately $4.6 million in combined grants and fee waivers as well as the land where the project is located which is valued at $13.3 million under a nominal-fee leasehold agreement.
The project is a partnership between the B.C. and federal governments, the City of Vancouver, the Aboriginal Housing Management Association, and VAFCS. Development support has also been provided by Western Canadian Properties Group and M’akola Development Services.
Construction on Ho’-kee-melh Kloshe Lum is expected to be complete in late 2025.
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