Ey Swayel,

Skwah First Nation

LAND CODE

On November 16 & 17, our members will vote on the Sqwá (Skwah) First Nation Land Code.

The People of Skwah First Nation

Skwah First Nation has 687 band members. The main reservation is located in the Sto:lo Territory, near the historic Chilliwack Landing. Our original land in Chilliwack was the area where Five Corners now sits.

Skwah First Nation also encompasses other lands: Skwali just north of the Hope Slough, Skwahla at the base of Little Mountain, and Schelowat in Rosedale. Skwah FN also shares the administration of the Grass Indian Reserve #5, Pekw’Xe:yles, and Skumalasph IR#16. Chilliwack Landing Preschool has been teaching children from the community and surrounding areas for over 30 years, fostering the values of self-worth & self-preservation through the cultural connection within our children’s family traditions, elder teachings and community involvement. Our curriculum is all about ensuring our young children reach their full potential through the outstanding care and educational programming. We are an accredited school open to the community of Chilliwack and Sardis. A great source of pride for Skwah First Nation is the River Spirit Canoe Club. Started and run by the Williams family, members compete and win regularly throughout BC and the north western states. They also work closely with School District #33, where students are introduced to traditional First Nations cultural teaching and experiences.

What we believe should be priority goals are capacity building of leadership via governance training, policy development training, and leadership training. We are highly Indian Act dependant band and would like to see a greater shift to nation-building and pride-building.

HOUSING DEPARTMENT

The Housing Department is dedicated to providing safe, healthy and affordable housing for Skwah First Nation members. The Housing Committee meets monthly and is responsible for creating the Rental Housing Application list and hearing housing appeals.

EDUCATION & PRESCHOOL

Our curriculum is all about ensuring our young children reach their full potential through the outstanding care and educational programming. We are an accredited school open to the community of Chilliwack and Sardis.

BAND HALL AND COMMUNITY CENTRE RENTAL

Facilities are free to use for Skwah Band Members and we request that reservations be made at least one week ahead of time. Non-Band members can rent the facilities for a fee, and they are available for use by groups and individuals. Advance Booking required.

PROGRAMS & RESOURCES

FITNESS

The class is taught by one of Skwah’s community members Kaila Mussell, a nationally certified personal trainer.

HEALTH

Staffing the center regularly is Sunny (RN, CHN), who is the Community Health Nurse, and Pamela (LPN, CHR)

COUNSELLING

Alcohol and Drug Counselling Services with Kirsten Maier (RCC) & Trauma Psychology with Allyson Cushing (RCC)

EMPLOYMENT

SASET provides Aboriginal Employment and Training Services to First Nations working age in the Fraser Valley.

FINANCE

Responsible for incorporating sound accounting policies & procedures to maintain the financial integrity of Skwah First Nation.

SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT

This department is responsible for assisting individuals & families who are resident on reserve maintain a basic standard of living.

ELDERS

Very active Elders group who meets regularly to plan and fund raise for their annual attendance at the Elder’s Gathering.

YOUTH

Seasonal activites, such as trips to waterslides, Christmas activities, field trips, etc, and are open to all family members.

Mailing Address:

Skwah First Nation

PO Box 178

Chilliwack, BC

V2P 6H7

Office Phone: 604-792-9204

Office Fax: 604-792-1093

Office Email: reception@skwah.org

Admin/Health Offices

615 Lower Landing Rd

Chilliwack, BC

Community Centre

30 Landing Dr

Chilliwack, BC

Band Hall

619 Lower Landing Rd

Chilliwack, BC