NationTalk: Alberta’s government is ensuring that Indigenous communities across the province have the necessary resources needed to meet the unique housing needs of their communities. Through Alberta’s Indigenous Housing Capital Program (IHCP), a total of $4.4 million was contributed to the Conklin Indigenous Housing Initiative, which includes five four-bedroom units and 10 two- and three-bedroom units designed for Métis families living in the area. Supporting affordable housing projects in smaller communities is a key action under Alberta’s Stronger Foundations affordable housing strategy.
“It is important to support projects like this that will provide much needed affordable housing for remote communities such as Conklin. We will continue to pursue partnerships that support affordable housing options for Indigenous peoples in communities across the province. This is an exciting day and I want to thank all our partners for seeing this important project to completion.”
Jason Nixon, Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services
“Promoting safer communities starts with building more accessible homes. Today’s $4.4 million-investment in the Conklin Indigenous Housing Initiative is giving Métis families 15 new, affordable and accessible housing units in Wood Buffalo. This is how we’re using Indigenous-led projects to meet housing needs in First Nation communities across the province.”
Randy Boissonnault, federal Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages on behalf of Sean Fraser, federal Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities.
The Indigenous Housing Capital Program supports Indigenous communities in building affordable off-reserve, off-settlement and on-settlement housing. Alberta’s government supports the development, delivery and ownership of more affordable homes built by Indigenous communities for Indigenous peoples in need. The first phase of this new housing is open and residents have moved in.
“This is the latest example of how Alberta’s government collaborates with Indigenous communities and local partners to ensure housing needs are met and they provide culturally appropriate supports. These units, funded by the Indigenous Housing Capital Program, will help provide affordable housing for Métis families in the community and reflects our continued commitment to provide safe and affordable housing to Indigenous peoples.”
Rick Wilson, Minister of Indigenous Relations
“Affordable housing is needed right across the province, especially in communities like Conklin, and we are committed to meeting this demand. Being able to partner with Indigenous and Métis communities makes this an even bigger win for Wood Buffalo.”
Brian Jean, MLA for Fort McMurray-Lac La Biche
This has been a long time in coming, but that this day is here is a cause for real celebration, and we are celebrating. A huge amount of thanks is owed to Cenovus and government of Alberta. But credit is also due to the members of our community and Board who advocated long and hard for our citizens.”
Valerie Quintal, CRDAC board member and Conklin Metis Local #193 president
Quick facts
- The land for the project was provided by the regional municipality of Wood Buffalo.
- Funding for the Conklin Indigenous Housing Initiative includes:
- $4.4 million from the Indigenous Housing Capital Program which receives cost-matched funding through the governments of Alberta and Canada, through the bilateral agreement under the National Housing Strategy.
- $1.2 million from the Conklin Resource Development Advisory Committee.
- $2 million per year over five years from Cenovus Energy including this 15-lot subdivision and future housing projects with the Conklin Resource Development Advisory Committee
- Through the Indigenous Housing Capital Program (IHCP), Alberta’s government has approved $73.5 million for 22 projects totaling 521 units in 15 communities.
- Since 2019, Alberta’s government has invested almost $850 million to build more than 5,100 affordable units and close to 900 shelter spaces. This includes projects that are committed to, that are in progress and that are complete.
- Canada’s National Housing Strategy (NHS) is a $115-billion national plan to give more Canadians a place to call home.
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