Atikameksheng Anishnawbek breaks ground on new housing project supported by $1.1 million from the Federal government

NICKEL BELT-GREATER SUDBURY (September 15, 2020) – A fundamental need for all Canadians is a safe and healthy home. That is why the Government of Canada works in partnership with Indigenous communities to develop innovative housing initiatives to reduce overcrowding and enhance the quality of life and well-being of residents.

Today, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Indigenous Services, and the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and the Minister responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), congratulated Gimma Craig Nootchtai, council and members of the administration on the groundbreaking to build six new homes for their residents. MP Serré was on site at Atimakeksheng Anishnabek with Gimma Nootchtai, council and community members to celebrate the occasion with a sod-turning ceremony to mark the joyous occasion.

This project will result in six units consisting of two semi-detached and two three-bedroom bungalows for the community. The use of local materials, in-house labour, and training opportunities from this project will support community and economic development and sustainability. The new homes will also address social housing needs and reduce overcrowding.

Construction of these units is funded partly through Indigenous Services Canada and Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation Section 95 Loan and will have a positive impact in addressing the current and future housing needs of Atikameksheng Anishnawbek.

Contributions from Indigenous Services Canada ($671,850) and Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation ($437,400) will support:
1. Renovations Project Funding
2. Capacity Development and Innovation Project Funding
3. Construction, Lot Servicing Project Funding

The Government of Canada is committed to improving housing conditions in Indigenous communities and is proud to partner with Atikameksheng Anishnawbek on this project.

Quotes
“Congratulations to Gimma Nootchtai, council and members of the administration on reaching this important milestone resulting in six new homes for your community! Atikameksheng Anishnawbek continues to build its capacity by developing sustainable projects that will help foster growth. Looking forward to continued collaboration on housing projects that improve living conditions, reduce overcrowding, and provide safe and affordable housing for residents.” – Marc G. Serré MP Nickel Belt

“First Nations communities continue to face overcrowding and lack of affordable housing options on reserve. These new homes will provide safe and secure homes for residents of Atikameksheng Anishnawbek and train community members on home construction and maintenance.”- The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and the Minister responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC)

“We are excited to break ground on this housing project to build new homes for our members. I would like to thank my council, members of the administration and the community for their work and dedication on this project. The new homes will help address some housing concerns in our community and we will continue to work with Indigenous Services Canada and CMHC to address these issues.” – Chief Craig Nootchtai, Atikameksheng Anishnawbek

Quick facts
• Atikameksheng Anishnawbek is located west of Sudbury, at the east end of Whitefish Lake, and west of Stuart Lake. It is located within 50 km of the nearest service centre to which it has year-round road access.
• Indigenous Services Canada is providing $671,850 and Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation is providing $437,400 in support of this project.
• The project is expected to be completed by March 31, 2021.
• Indigenous Services Canada continues to partner with Atikameksheng Anishnawbek as they develop innovative initiatives to address housing concerns and build capacity on reserve, including the construction of new homes and the renovation of existing units.
• Youth in the community will have opportunities to learn about the construction and maintenance of homes through the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s Housing Internship Initiative for First Nations and Inuit Youth program.

Associated links
• Atikameksheng Anishnawbek
• Interactive Map: Investing in First Nations community infrastructure
• Learn how Indigenous Services Canada helps First Nations provide sustainable housing on reserve
• Housing Internship Initiative for First Nation and Inuit Youth (HIIFNIY)

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Media Contact:
Kaylie Dudgeon
Special Assistant
Marc G. Serré, MP Nickel Belt
705-897-2222
Marc.serre.c1a@parl.gc.ca