Eight new affordable rental homes are planned for Bonaparte First Nation.
The province announced on Sept. 10 the homes are part of more than 1,600 across B.C. earmarked for support through the Building BC: Indigenous Housing Fund.
It is anticipated the new home will be constructed on lots at 2710 and 2712 Sage Hill Road.
The homes are part of ongoing reconciliation work to ensure that Indigenous people are provided the resources and services to thrive in the communities they call home, said said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing.
"With collective support from partners, we are better able to deliver housing that meets people's needs."
Regional Chief Terry Teegee of the BC Assembly of First Nations said the Building BC:Indigenous Housing Fund is helping to address the critical need for culturally supportive shelter.
"As the first of its kind fund in Canada to provide provincial investments for on-reserve housing, the Province of B.C. is leading by example on the collective effort needed to address this crisis which disproportionately impacts First Nations in British Columbia."
Launched in 2018, the IHF is a $1.7-billion provincial program, administered by BC Housing, to support government's target of delivering 3,500 homes for Indigenous families, elders, individuals and people with disabilities on and off reserve.
"Indigenous leaders and organizations have long asked governments at all levels to help them take action to address the Indigenous housing crisis," said Murray Rankin, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation. "In B.C., we are taking a unique approach and working in partnership to address this need, including funding housing on reserve and treaty land, something no other province is doing. Through provincial investments, we are helping support stronger communities and making real change in people's lives."
BC Housing is working closely with successful applicants, including Indigenous non-profit housing providers and First Nations, to continue these projects through the development process. More information about specific projects, including funding amounts and development timelines, will be made public as they are finalized.
