CHBA Fraser Valley Boot Bank helps students step into careers in residential construction

CHBA Fraser Valley (CHBA FV) found a practical way to open doors for young people looking to access careers in residential construction through its lending Boot Bank. Started after a secondary school asked for spare steel-toed boots for a field trip, the CHBA FV Boot Bank now includes about 50 pairs of donated footwear, along with safety vests and gear.

With support from local partners such as Industry Workwear and JBS Equipment, the program loans boots to schools across the BC Lower Mainland so students can safely visit jobsites. Boots are also donated to students starting their careers and have supported community groups like South Fraser Women’s Services Society. By removing the cost barrier of steel-toed footwear, the CHBA FV Boot Bank helps teachers expand trades field trips, supports women exploring construction careers, and gives more young people a safe first step into Canada’s residential construction workforce.