Helping create safer, stronger homes and community spaces

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Posted: May 22, 2026

22 Basin projects receive $1 million to repair and upgrade places people rely on

Affordable rental housing, community halls and child care facilities across the Columbia Basin are receiving upgrades to help ensure they remain safe, functional and sustainable for years to come.

This work includes 22 projects in 16 communities, focused on assessing and upgrading building conditions or creating asset management plans to ensure long term viability. Led by non-profits and First Nations, the projects are supported by over $1 million from Columbia Basin Trust.

“These projects will help affordable housing tenants have well-maintained homes, welcoming places for people to gather and take part in community life, and quality, licensed child care spaces that support healthy development,” said Ulli Mueller, Senior Manager, Delivery of Benefits, Columbia Basin Trust. “Activities like reinforcing a foundation, fixing a guardrail or planning for future maintenance may seem small, but they can make a real difference in people’s daily lives.”

The projects may include structural engineering assessments, replacements such as hot water heaters, repairs to issues like cracks, energy-efficiency upgrades, and roof reinforcements to support solar panels or mechanical equipment.

Below are two examples of supported projects. See the full list below. Learn more about the second intake for this program at ourtrust.org/BEAMS.

Appledale Children’s Centre

The Appledale Daycare Society is upgrading the Appledale Children’s Centre by replacing windows and hot water heaters, sealing foundation cracks and other exterior penetrations, improving site grading, and assessing existing insulation.

“The Appledale Children’s Centre is a beautiful heritage building that receives 15 to 20 families every year for daycare,” said Huguette Marr, Director.

“In a rural area like Winlaw, the building is also a great meeting place where all families can get together, plus where children gather to play in the playground.”

Oasis Community Hall

The Oasis Recreational Society is protecting the roof structural components from water damage by installing a new weatherproof roof surface and installing a new hot water heater.

“Oasis Recreational Society wants to continue to make our hall a safe and welcoming place, not only for our community but for all the people who like to spend the day in the hall and the surrounding park,” said Steve Scaia, President.

Columbia Basin Trust supports the efforts of the people in the Columbia Basin to strengthen social, economic and environmental well-being. To learn more about programs and initiatives, visit ourtrust.orgor call 1.800.505.8998.