Housing Programs
Squamish Nation Assistance with Rent Program (SNARP)
To support our community affected by the health and housing crisis, the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Nation Council helps with rent through the Squamish Nation Assistance with Rent Program (SNARP). This program is a two-year pilot program, and we are currently in Year 2 of this program. Continuation of this program is based on the availability of funds and funding past Year 2 is pending a Council decision.
Administered by Hiy̓ám̓ ta Sḵw̱xwú7mesh Housing Society (Hiy̓ám̓ Housing), this program will provide eligible tenants with up to $250 – $750 per month, for up to one year, paid directly to the eligible renter. The supplement is designed to help low and moderate-income Squamish Citizen renters facing financial hardship. Those currently living in housing with rent subsidized by any level of government will not qualify for this program.
Program Objectives
- To support Squamish Citizens paying unaffordable market rents;
- To support our women, children and families who are fleeing violence; Our slhenlhánay̓ (women) and ḵ’émḵ’emay (girls) are sacred to us. Including LGBTQAI2S+ (Two-Spirited);
- To financially support our vulnerable populations; Elders (55+) and Citizens with disabilities.
Hiyám̓ Home Loan Program (HHLP)
To support our mandate to bring the community home within a generation, Hiy̓ám Housing launched the first phase of the home loan program in October 2021. Phase 1 of this program provided Squamish Nation members with an opportunity to get a bank loan, similar to a mortgage, to construct a home. Administered by Hiy̓ám Housing this program is part of an affordable and equitable strategy to house the Squamish community along the spectrum of need and all income levels.
Each phase that we roll out will include home construction loans and additional expanded program options. If the member does not meet the bank’s loan eligibility requirements, those members will not qualify for this program.
Program Objectives
- Promote home ownership pride and responsibility.
- Address higher income earners need for housing in the community.
- Provide home loan support in an equitable and accountable manner.
- Protect and enhance the Nation’s and owners’ investment in housing.
- Share the responsibility for housing between the Nation and members.
