April 9, 2024

NationTalk: Journal of Commerce, DCN-JOC News Services, EDMONTON – A Metis organization will be the first organization to receive an Indigenous-led affordable housing grant for a seniors housing development in northeast Edmonton.

Metis Capital Housing Corporation will receive $2.29 million for a seniors’ lodge in Edmonton’s Montrose neighbourhood featuring 36 affordable suites, a common dining area and onsite social programming, a release said.

The new lodge replaces the former Nihgi Seniors Lodge which closed in 2021 after 54 years.

“Our seniors and knowledge keepers have been stewards of the land, raised our children, passed the history of our ancestors down and taught us so much. With culturally-appropriate programming in our senior’s lodge, we will be able to take great care of our seniors and ensure their later years are enjoyable, surrounded by community,” said Otipemisiwak Métis Government president Andrea Sandmaier in a statement.

Since 2018 the city’s Affordable Housing Investment Program has offered affordable housing providers up to 25 per cent of construction costs for new or renovated affordable housing, the release said, and has invested $67.8 million over the past five years.

In April 2023 a new stream was added for Indigenous-led organizations providing up to 40 per cent funding, aligned to meet the needs for multi-bedroom units, energy efficient features that reduce operating costs, and deeper subsidies for priority groups, such as families fleeing domestic violence, the release added.