The DTES CLT was formed in the spring of 2020, when a coalition of DTES-serving nonprofits were looking for holistic solutions to the ongoing SRO crisis. Through discussions with housing innovators across Canada, the coalition was introduced to the idea of community land trusts. With some initial seed grants, the DTES CLT was able to hire staff and develop its vision. The DTES CLT officially incorporated in January, 2023. 

The original coalition members include:

  • Aboriginal Front Door Society;
  • Vancouver Aboriginal Community Policing Centre;
  • Downtown Eastside SRO Collaborative Society; and
  • Powell Street Festival Society.