Communities in the FVRD are facing increasing pressures relating to housing affordability, homelessness and other social issues.  Over the past few years, housing costs have increased substantially, and the number of people at risk of homelessness is increasing.  Local governments, especially small and medium-sized communities do not have the expertise, resources or authority to adequately address these issues.

The issues surrounding affordable housing and homelessness are complex and will require action on the part of all levels of government to address.  The FVRD is playing a facilitation role in addressing these issues and has created a Mayors' Task Force on Homelessness and Affordable Housing.

Since the creation of the Mayor's Taskforce, the FVRD has played a significant role in supporting social and affordable housing initiatives in the region.  The Region depends on building partnerships with other agencies, governments and non-profits to achieve its ends.

Most municipalities in the FVRD are using materials provided or supported by the FVRD as the basis of their respective affordable housing and social planning strategies. 

Specific Initiatives:

• "Homelessness in the Upper Fraser Valley" (2005) Homelessness Count - in-kind support
• "Affordable and Accessible Housing in the Upper Fraser Valley: Issues and Opportunities" (2006) - in-kind support
• "We Need to Get Home" (2008) Homelessness Count - funding and in-kind support
• "Gaining Momentum: Affordable Housing in the Fraser Valley" and a "Social Housing Inventory" for each community (2009) - funding, data and in-kind support
• Social Housing Inventories:

City of Abbotsford
City of Chilliwack
District of Mission
District of Hope
District of Kent  

• "Housing Demand and Affordability in the FVRD" Regional Snapshot Series (2009)
• On-going support of the Fraser Valley Housing Network
• Housing and homelessness related forums
  • Dialogue on Homelessness and Affordable Housing in the Fraser Valley (2006)
  • The Business Case for Solving Homelessness (2007)
  • Partnerships for Affordable Housing - partnering opportunities (2007)
  • Building Momentum (2008)