ONTARIO, Canada – At the end of November 2009, Racheal Anishinabie and her three children received the keys to their new home.

Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services (OAHS) administers the new off-reserve First Nations, Métis, Inuit Urban & Rural (FIMUR) Assisted Homeownership Program.  The FIMUR Homeownership Program provides up to $30,000 for eligible applicants with assistance for a down payment and other related closing costs. 

Don McBain, Executive Director of OAHS, comments, “The FIMUR Homeownership Program will help many Aboriginal individuals and families get access to safe and affordable homes.” 

This funding is provided by the Province of Ontario from the federal off-reserve Aboriginal Housing Trust.  Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) was also able to assist by insuring the mortgages so that lenders could participate. 

When asked what this new home means to her, the emotions build up.  “It’s overwhelming,” says the mother of three as she wipes tears of joy rolling down her cheek.  “I’m really happy.  My kids are really happy.” 

Racheal is no stranger to successful endings.  This First Nations mother also took home three medals in the North American Indigenous Games last year.  Racheal is an avid runner and somehow managed to find time to squeeze in training early mornings and late at night. 

The FIMUR Homeownership Program also provides an important boost to local economies.  McBain notes, “Whenever someone buys a home, there are economic benefits provided to many service providers.  This includes real estate agents, home inspectors, mortgage brokers or bankers, and the list goes on.” 

For more information on the FIMUR Program, please visit the FIMUR section of this website, or call 1-866-391-1061.