Seeding Growth in Bowness

Nestled along the picturesque Bow River, Bowness stands as a testament to Calgary's rich history and vibrant community spirit. Once an independent town boasting pastoral landscapes, Bowness now represents a diverse tapestry of people from different socioeconomic backgrounds and experiences. As part of our deep-rooted presence in and commitment to this beloved neighbourhood, Trellis is embarking on a transformative journey to address the pressing need for affordable family housing in this community. 

Trellis’ connection to Bowness traces back nearly half a century, originating in 1976 when we first moved into the neighbourhood and opened a home for youth under our old name: Boys & Girls Clubs of Calgary. Our community involvement grew in 2003, when we opened our Bowness Club and have watched this evolve into a vibrant community hub, offering child development and family support services. We’ve actively participated in events like the Bowness Stampede Parade, Neighbour Day and came together with neighbours to support each other during the 2013 flood. When we grew into Trellis Society in 2020 it was with the desire to deepen our work in the community and ensure that anyone who came through our doors had access to the support they needed to flourish.  

Like many other communities in Calgary, Bowness is not immune to challenges, most notably the current affordable housing crisis. Over the past three years, home prices citywide have surged by 37%, coinciding with a steep rise in the demand for accessible housing options. 

To address this growing need, Tim Ward, the city's manager of housing solutions, emphasized the significance of collaborative efforts, stating, "To help address the housing crisis, it's important we create more homes in all neighborhoods throughout Calgary. That includes increasing the supply of non-market housing." This sentiment resonated deeply with us at Trellis and by drawing on our deep roots in the community, we are planning to expand our services for families to help alleviate housing insecurity in Bowness. 

A Lifeline for Families Facing Housing Instability 

In 2023 the City of Calgary announced its intention to partner with housing providers through selling city-owned land at below market rates for the development of affordable housing. At the same time, we heard from our families in Bowness about the increased housing challenges they were facing. With the City’s announcement, we saw an opportunity to contribute to the community that we feel so deeply invested in. 

The vision for Trellis' Bowness family housing project represents a lifeline for families facing housing instability. This 50-unit building will not only provide a safe place for parents and their children to call home but will also be ideally situated in proximity to important amenities, including schools and transit. Additionally, it will be within walking distance to Trellis Bowness, ensuring easy access to a comprehensive suite of wrap-around services. From childcare and parenting support to cultural enrichment and therapy, Trellis’ holistic approach extends far beyond the walls of a single building. Families residing in these units will benefit from a positive environment that fosters growth, stability, and community connection.  

In the face of daunting challenges, the Bowness community has proven time and time again that it stands together, lifting people up during difficult times. By investing in families, Trellis reaffirms its commitment to the community through this housing project and supporting Bowness to be a vibrant, thriving community for all. Our collaboration with the city and the community to address the housing crisis is a reminder that when we come together with purpose and determination, we can create lasting change that transcends generations. 

Call out block 

By the time this article is published, community engagement and consultation will be underway for our Bowness family housing project with the goal to begin construction in spring 2025.