Housing

Housing is fundamental to reducing homelessness because it provides stability, security, and the foundation needed to address other challenges individuals may face, such as mental health issues, addiction, or unemployment. Without stable housing, it is difficult for people to access services, maintain employment, or achieve long-term wellness.

In addressing housing-related challenges, the City and local service providers base their efforts on the Housing First model.

Core principles of Housing First include:

• Immediate Access to Housing with no housing readiness conditions such as sobriety or participation in treatment programs.
• Housing Choice: Individuals are given the freedom to choose the type and location of their housing, although choice may be constrained by the conditions of the local housing market.
• Individualized, recovery-oriented supports: Once housed, individuals receive wrap-around ongoing support services tailored to their needs, including mental health services, addiction treatment, employment support, and life skills training. Housing provided is stable, affordable and long-term, allowing individuals to focus on recovery and personal growth.
• Harm Reduction: A public health strategy that aims to reduce risks and effects associated with substance use at individual, community, and societal levels.
• Social and Community Integration: Promoting recovery, personal well-being, and reintegration into the community. 

Housing First Task Team (Chilliwack Healthier Community)

The Housing First Task Team, comprised of shelter, low barrier and supportive housing operators and front-line health and social service providers, meets monthly to share information and address challenges in real-time to ensure full wrap-around services for individuals experiencing, or at imminent risk of homelessness.