Canadian Mortgage News

January 2008 National News Archive

30 New Affordable Homes for Nanoose First Nation

LANTZVILLE, British Columbia, August 20, 2008 — Nanoose First Nation celebrated the grand opening of 30 new, single family homes today. Chief David Bob and Elders Ann and Jim Bob were joined by community and guests to officially open the area's largest new housing project. More than 30 band members, including Elders and their families, will move into brand new, energy-efficient homes.

“The Government of Canada is committed to creating affordable housing for Aboriginal people in British Colombia and across the country.” said Dr. James Lunney, Member of Parliament for Nanaimo – Alberni, on behalf of the Honourable Monte Solberg, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development. “As a result of this project, First Nations families, Elders and individuals with special needs living on reserve, will have access to safe, adequate housing at an affordable cost, helping them to start a new page in their lives.”

The new units were made possible thanks in part to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) which provided a housing loan of more than $2.5 million that is delivered and administered by All Nations Trust Company, as CMHC's lender agent. Under the On-Reserve Non-Profit Housing Program, CMHC is also contributing a planned subsidy of more than $3.2 million over the lifetime of the loan.

“We believe this housing project is a community milestone and success,” said Chief Bob. “Our community members, housing manager, contractor and inspector, have given their best to help build homes we are all very proud of.”

CMHC's On-Reserve Non-Profit Housing Program assists First Nations in the construction, purchase and rehabilitation, and administration of adequate, suitable and affordable housing for Aboriginal people living on-reserve.The Government of Canada provides approximately $272 million in on-reserve funding each year to address housing need.

As Canada's national housing agency, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) draws on over 60 years of experience to help Canadians access a variety of quality, environmentally sustainable, and affordable homes — homes that will continue to create vibrant and healthy communities and cities across the country. For more information, call 1-800-668-2642.

For more information, please contact:

Tracy Wells
Senior Consultant, Communications & Marketing
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
604-999-7190

Debbie Baggott
Housing Manager
Nanoose First Nation
250-390-3661

News source: Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC)