On April 21, 2023, Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion, alongside George Chahal, Member of Parliament for Calgary Skyview announced funding of $58.5 million through the Rapid Housing Initiative (RHI) Project Stream. (PHOTO: Dpproductions | Dreamstime.com)

By Sarah Jones - Lethbridge News Now

Four southern Alberta First Nations provided with over $58 million for Rapid Housing Initiatives

Apr 21, 2023 | 3:19 PM

CALGARY AB – The Federal Government has promised to provide safe and affordable housing to people living on reserves in Southern Alberta.

On April 21, 2023, the Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion, Ahmed Hussen, announced an investment of $58.5 million through the Rapid Housing Initiative (RHI) Project Stream to support projects on four First Nations.

The funding is anticipated to create 231 homes and eight beds for vulnerable individuals, including families, youth aging out of care, and those suffering from mental health and addiction.

Hussen said, “No relationship is more important to our government than the one with Indigenous Peoples.

“That is why our government is immediately taking steps to support better housing outcomes for Indigenous communities throughout Alberta through projects such as these.”

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Hussen added, “By addressing the unique obstacles faced by First Nations communities in Alberta, these investments will make a significant impact in providing new, affordable housing units for vulnerable individuals and families. Our government’s National Housing Strategy is dedicated to providing affordable housing options to those who need them the most, all across the country.”

Those living in the Siksika Nation will see the construction of 20 single-family homes dedicated to single mothers, families, and those at risk of or experiencing homelessness. There will be 64 transitional housing duplexes for 18-to-24-year-olds who have aged out of care or who are attending post-secondary, and Siksika Nation members dealing with mental health and addiction issues. There will also be one eight-bed single family home to be used as a children’s group home offering supportive housing for children in care.

The Samson Cree Nation, within Maskwacis, was originally granted 65 single-family homes, but additional surpluses would allow for two, for a total of 67 homes.

Montana First Nation, near Maskwacis, has seen the construction of 20 single-family homes, which are set to be complete in June 2023.

The Blood Tribe has also constructed 50 single-family homes that were completed in March of 2022 as a result of the investment.

Canada’s National Housing Strategy (NHS) is a 10-year, $82-plus billion plan that will give more Canadians a place to call home.