Indigenous people make up 39% of the unhoused in the DTES while only representing 2% of the general population. The need to create housing for them is dire.
CFRO catches up with Dr. David Baspaly, President of Luma Native Housing Society responsible for the construction of the Indigenous housing at 320 E. Hastings in conjunction with First United Church.
The design plans for the building are finished and the project is moving ahead in the early stages of construction. The City of Vancouver announced funding through their Community Housing Incentive Program (CHIP).
Dr. Baspaly also said they have continued fundraising to for additional value to the project. Once completed it will be a mixed-use building with 103 studio and one-bedroom suites which will be offered at shelter rates. Expected completion is Summer of 2026.
