Local vision lays foundation for lasting homes in
Salmo and Slocan Valley
Affordable housing challenges are being met with shared vision and community determination. In Salmo and the Slocan Valley, stories like Arlie Bengert’s—who says the best part of living in Salmo Valley Estates is “the friendliness and the freedom with a sense of security”—show how local efforts are doing more than building homes: they’re helping people stay connected and communities thrive.
Supporting seniors at Passmore Lodge
In the heart of the Slocan Valley, a modest timber-framed building tucked among the trees stands as a symbol of community resilience. Built in 1999, Passmore Lodge was the first affordable housing project supported by the Trust, marking the beginning of a long-term commitment to housing across the Basin.
“Passmore Lodge has allowed aging residents to remain in the Slocan Valley instead of having to move to Alberta or Saskatchewan where housing is cheaper,” says Joyce Johnson, Administrator at Slocan Valley Housing Society (SVHS). “Staying close to family, friends and community support systems is vital to our senior population.”
Over time, the Trust’s support has evolved to meet changing needs. In addition to contributing to new housing developments, the Trust also helps communities preserve and upgrade existing housing and generate renewable energy. Passmore Lodge was among the first to benefit from these improvements, receiving upgraded attic insulation, ventilation, energy efficient heat pumps and solar panels.
“After the 2021 heat dome, some tenants couldn’t afford air conditioning, so I looked for alternatives,” says Johnson. “One tenant who initially resisted the change told me later how grateful they were, and that’s been the collective response. It’s really made a difference.”
Community builds homes and hope in Salmo
About 80 kilometres to the south, the Salmo and Area Supportive Housing Society marked a major milestone in 2014 with the opening of Salmo Valley Estates—a 28-unit affordable housing development for seniors and families. The project was the result of more than a decade of community fundraising, volunteerism and planning, supported by the Trust, BC Housing and multiple levels of government.
“The site had to be within walking distance of clinics, banks and other essential services,” says Heather Street of the Society. “Merle Hanson owned a property that fit the bill and he allowed us to purchase it with a no-interest mortgage, which we paid off quickly. But without the Trust’s guidance, this beautiful building would not be here today.”
Formed in 2002, the Society mobilized the community through bake sales, barbecues and sales of the popular Salmo Seniors cookbook. The result: a development that includes 20 senior suites and eight family townhomes, supporting a wide range of residents and helping to revitalize the community.
“It’s made the community more vibrant,” says Street. “As seniors moved into the Estates, their former homes were bought by young families. We even gained a beautiful new daycare. We still have a large senior population, but now it’s balanced by a younger generation.”
More homes, stronger communities
Slocan Valley Housing Society now manages three properties and is working on a fourth—a new affordable housing development in the Village of Slocan for residents of all ages. “This project will support everything from families to schools and businesses,” says Johnson. “Without a place to live, people can’t work or spend money locally, which means businesses suffer. People want to raise their kids in the valley, a place that’s less consumer-oriented and more nature-focused. But they can’t do that if they can’t find a place to live.”
Street sees similar pressures in Salmo. “Salmo is still affordable with a lower tax base and offers great amenities,” she says. “Our clinic and ambulance services are excellent, and we have a great education system, which is appealing for young families. But just like every other small community, we need more affordable housing.”
While no two communities are the same, these stories reflect a broader trend: locally led housing solutions, backed by the Trust, are helping communities across the Basin meet today’s housing challenges and plan for the future.
In recent years, the Trust’s role has expanded to include not just construction and energy improvements, but also livability enhancements that encourage gathering and physical activity, and supports that improve emergency readiness. Together, these efforts make housing more comfortable, safe and resilient.
A slower lifestyle rooted in community and nature is why so many choose to live in the Basin. Thanks to local leadership and the Trust’s ongoing commitment, more people can continue to call it home, today and for generations to come.
