Canadian Mortgage News

January 2001 National News Archive

First Nation Recognized for Healthy Housing Practices

TYENDINAGA MOHAWK TERRITORY, Ontario, March 2, 2001 — For making homes healthier for people and the environment, the Mohawks of Bay of Quinte First Nation's Housing Department was recognized at an official ceremony today. Five new subsidized housing units, designed for persons with physical disabilities, were also opened as part of the ceremonies.

"I can't overstate the significance of good housing in our lives," said the Honourable Lyle Vanclief, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Foods, on behalf of the Honourable Alfonso Gagliano, Minister responsible for CMHC. "As Canada 's national housing agency, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) plays a major role in First Nations housing and I'm proud to be part of this important ceremony."

Jean-Claude Villiard, CMHC President said, "CMHC is pleased to recognize the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte for their dedication to building healthier housing. They are the first Aboriginal community to receive this recognition and they have demonstrated extraordinary skills and knowledge in building healthier homes for their community."

CMHC's Healthy Housing Recognition Program was established to honour builders like the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte First Nation's Housing Department who demonstrate a knowledge of healthy housing principles.

"We are pleased to receive this recognition from CMHC," said Chief Don Maracle of the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte. "We Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte are proud that our people can build award winning housing and by building these homes we are building our community."

Today's ceremony also featured the opening of five single family homes, funded through CMHC's On-Reserve Non-Profit Housing Program. The barrier-free units were designed for persons with disabilities. The units are also R-2000 homes built for overall comfort, low maintenance, energy efficiency, healthy indoor air quality and longevity.

The On-Reserve Non-Profit Housing Program is an important part of the Government of Canada's commitment to help to house Aboriginal Canadians. In addition to this program, CMHC has provided funding through its Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program and Home Adaptations for Seniors' Independence Program.

For the five-unit project, CMHC provided a direct insured loan of $500,483 as well as a $22,119 annual subsidy.

News source: Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC)