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Shelter & Transitional Housing

A Housing First Approach

Squamish has perpetually low vacancy rates for rental and affordable housing. The Under One Roof facility has 39 supportive housing units, 16 emergency shelter beds, plus an additional 15 beds during extreme weather (e.g. below zero temperatures, wind warnings, and rainfall alerts).

We recognize housing as a human right. At Under One Roof, substance use and mental health challenges are not obstacles to receiving housing. Our supportive housing model provides 24/7 onsite staffing and services based on each individual’s needs.

Emergency Shelter

Operating 365 days a year, we offer 16 low-barrier beds for adults at Under One Roof, located at 37871 Third Avenue in downtown Squamish.

At the shelter, sleeping cots and bedding are provided in a shared sleeping area. Warm food and beverages are served in the evening and morning. Outreach staff are on site at all times to assist with additional resources. Drop-in services include access to the internet, phone, bathrooms, showers, laundry, hygiene supplies, and clothing.

Emergency Weather Program

Our Extreme Weather Program provides an additional 15 beds during cold and rainy months. All those living in precarious housing situations (vehicle, tent, outdoors, unheated dwelling, unsafe shared living space, etc.) are welcome.

Transitional Housing

Under One Roof was created to provide safe housing and support to help adults experiencing homelessness transition to independent living. Using a Housing First approach, substance use and mental health challenges are not obstacles to receiving housing. The people who live at Under One Roof receive guidance, structure and support with:

  • A fully furnished, private apartment
  • 24-hour staff support, 7 days a week
  • Community meals, social events and recreational activities
  • Life skills training (cooking, money management, self-care, job skills and more)
  • Opportunities to get involved in community projects and peer support
  • Case management with support of physicians, outreach and social workers

As of October 2025, 63% of the residents at Under One Roof are 55+, with the youngest at 32 and the oldest at 82 years of age. Over a quarter are mobility challenged (requiring a cane, walker or wheelchair) and 66% identify as a person with a disability.  95% have resided in the Sea to Sky for over 5 years.

Squamish Helping Hands currently manages an extensive waitlist for housing provided at Under One Roof. While the process is low barrier, applicants are required to complete a vulnerability assessment to be considered.

Supportive Housing

A new development proposed at 39900 Government Road will provide 60-65 studio homes with access to on-site supports to ensure people can achieve and maintain housing stability. Residents will have their own studio apartment or, in some cases, a unit with shared bathroom and common areas. It will house single adults (19+) of all genders, including seniors, people with disabilities or any others who need extra support to keep their housing. All residents sign either a program or tenancy agreement and participate in programming based on their personal goals.

Squamish Helping Hands will work with community partners to operate the facility and provide supports like:

  • 24/7 staffing
  • Meal programs
  • Life skills and employment training
  • On-site health and wellness support, including referral pathways to substance-use treatment and recovery.

Once in a supportive housing unit, people who previously experienced homelessness report improvements in access to employment, income, education, mental health supports and life-skills. Supportive housing in Squamish will mean fewer people will shelter outdoors which will reduce hospital stays, health care and corrections costs.

Learn more:

Proposed Government Road Project Supported by BC Housing

Communications-and-Engagement-Summary-Report-39900-Government-Road-Squamish

Communications and Engagement Summary Report

BC Housing Supportive Housing Registration Service

Inspiring Hope and Independence

Squamish Helping Hands provides a safety net for people in Squamish and the Sea to Sky by offering food, shelter, outreach, and health and wellbeing programs at Under One Roof. Its programs address immediate needs for people in a secure space, allowing them to take a breath, feel supported and empowered.

Health and Wellbeing

Outreach and Harm Reduction