Cowichan Housing Association
Adequate, Suitable, Affordable Housing for All
Our Vision
We believe permanent, adequate, suitable, affordable housing is foundational to healthy individuals, families, and communities. We work to increase permanent affordable housing options and to reduce homelessness in the Cowichan Valley through, community development and engagement, homelessness prevention programming, facilitating and developing permanent affordable housing.
Please know that we are not affiliated with BC Housing and do not have access to any housing waitlists within the community.
For all BC Housing inquiries please call: 1-800-257-7756
Extreme Weather Shelter
Located at 140 Trans Canada Hwy (Behind the Ramada Hotel)
Call 604-837-3171 to confirm shelter space
Open 8:30pm-7:30am
*Only open when temperatures are near 0, and/or there is heavy rain/wind/snow *
Our Impact
Since the establishment of Cowichan Housing Association (CHA) in 2015, the organization has evolved into an important community hub focused on providing information, services, and advocacy for affordable housing, housing loss prevention, and for people who are precariously housed, unhoused, and those experiencing homelessness.
We are working one step at a time to ensure every resident of the Cowichan Valley has permanent, affordable, and safe housing.
Housing Loss Prevention Services
Since 2016, CHA's
Emergency Assistance Program has helped prevent 329+ evictions and utility disconnections for individuals and families.
From 2021 to 2024, CHA's Food Voucher Program supported food security for over 296 households.
Transition from COVID-19 Temporary Housing Sq'umul' Shelh Lelum
During the COVID-19 pandemic, CHA temporarily housed 36 individuals. As these temporary COVID-19 sites were decommissioned, some residents transitioned to Sq'umul' Shelh Lelum, a supportive living facility for those experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
The Village Project
CHA and project partner Lookout Housing and Health Society, commenced operation of the Village in March 2022. The project provides temporary accommodation and wraparound support services for 34 individuals experiencing homelessness. As of March 31, 2024, CHA is no longer involved in the operations of the Village.
Statement of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Access
Cowichan Housing Association strives to uplift voices that are traditionally marginalized and to make a difference in the lives of those we serve. We care deeply about making an informed impact, and we value diversity, equity, inclusion, and access in all areas of our work.
We are committed to creating a culture of respect and dignity. We welcome all who pass through our doors, regardless of age, race, ethnicity, disability, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, household composition, housing status, and/or belief system.
We believe people are all equal and worthy of compassion and respect, and this belief is reflected in our work throughout the community.