Funding announcement for Indigenous housing is welcome but more is needed
February 20, 2019
Treaty One Territory, Manitoba
AMC Communications
TREATY ONE TERRITORY, MB. _ The federal government has announced they plan to spend $638 million over the next decade to help Indigenous families have safe and affordable homes.
“While it is welcome news, when you break down the numbers, I don’t know how effective this will be for First Nation citizens,” said Acting Grand Chief Glenn Hudson.
“When you divide $638 million over ten years that equates to $63.8 million a year, take into consideration that there are approximately 115,000 homeless Indigenous people in this country, you’re looking at about $500 per person. And we haven’t even included the First Nations who are living in sub-standard housing in urban areas into that mix.”
The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) is developing a plan to end First Nations homelessness. Two gatherings are currently being planned in March. Key representatives and participants from First Nation communities and services, along with health service providers that intersect with the vulnerable population, will develop the plan in partnership with End Homelessness Winnipeg.
The AMC is also partnered with the Manitoba Real Estate Association to help First Nations families purchase their first home. The Manitoba Tipi Mitawa program guides and supports families through education and financial assistance.
“The AMC is already working to help support First Nations families to own their own homes and improve their living conditions but it would be great if we could do more to help more of our citizens,” said Acting Grand Chief Hudson.
“I hope that this latest funding announcement will help do that.”