Published: December 13, 2019
Sault Ste. Marie — Ontario is investing in a new program to expand off-reserve housing to urban centres. This will give Indigenous people living in both large and small communities across the province better access to affordable housing and supports.
The new Rural and Urban Indigenous Housing program will invest $8 million annually over five years to help create and maintain over 1,500 units in areas that need it most, including rent-geared-to-income housing. Ontario’s funding will also provide housing allowances and support services to Indigenous households across the province.
“We know there are more Indigenous people moving to urban centres in the North and across the province,” said Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. “By providing support for Indigenous off-reserve housing we can help more individuals and families find a place to call home.”
This new agreement builds on the government’s collaborative relationship with Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services, which will continue to work with the province over the next five years to help those who are the most in need.
…
“We are pleased to see the commitment from the Province to support housing for Indigenous people living in urban and rural areas,” said Sylvia Maracle, Chair of the Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services Board of Directors. “The collaboration between the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing and Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services is crucial in providing culturally-appropriate housing and services for Indigenous people.”
