Editor’s note: Tackling the housing crisis seems to be almost as important as climate change to communities throughout our listening area. It’s been six years since the Cortes Community Housing Society, then a committee of the Cortes Island Seniors Society, was launched on Cortes Island. They purchased 51 acres in downtown Mansons Landing, to build an affordable housing project that would soon be christened ‘Rainbow Ridge.’ There are still significant challenges to be addressed before it will become a reality, the most significant being funding. The Cortes Housing Society is now exploring other options and recently purchased a parcel of land that has two potential rental houses. Here is another interesting housing model, from some of our neighbours to the south, which has taken even longer to become a reality.

By Jordan Copp, Coast Reporter, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

A community gathered to celebrate and welcome their newest neighbours last weekend. 

On June 22, Habitat for Humanity hosted a block party on Chestnut Lane in ts’ukw’um (Wilson Creek) where more than 30 residents gathered along with elected representatives and guests. 

As two families move into the new homes, the event also marked the completion of the Sunshine Habitat Village, a 12-year endeavour.

With 16 homes made of six duplexes and a fourplex, the village came at the hands of hundreds of volunteers and donors.