The federal government says they are committing $4-billion for Indigenous housing in urban, rural and northern communities. The announcement was made in Behchokǫ̀ on Friday.
The multi billion dollar plan, dubbed the Urban, Rural and Northern Indigenous Housing Strategy, intends to balance Indigenous-led funding agreements and open, project-based funding for Indigenous housing projects.
Crown-Indigenous Relations Minister and N.W.T. MP Rebecca Alty joined Housing Minister Gregor Robertson for the announcement.
The multi-billion dollar strategy includes a $1.7 billion investment through the Build Canada Homes, a federal agency, to support Indigenous housing providers serving urban, rural and northern areas.
Nearly $2 billion is aimed at distinctions-based agreements with First Nations, Inuit and Métis partners. That will include $1.2 billion in existing funding agreements and a $780 million top-up in new funding for the agreements.
According to the announcement, another $300 million will be accessible through Indigenous Services Canada for urgent housing needs in urban, rural and northern communities.
Indigenous Services Minister Mandy Gull-Masty said the announcement is an “important step” in the government’s commitment to urban, rural and northern Indigenous housing.
“Safe, adequate housing is fundamental to health, well-being, and opportunity — and we know that the best results are achieved when Indigenous communities lead. This updated approach strengthens how funding flows to Indigenous partners, supporting self-determined, distinction-based solutions that will improve housing outcomes where they are needed most,” said Minister Gull-Masty
Minister Alty emphasized that housing solutions must reflect the distinct needs and circumstances of First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities.
“This funding supports Indigenous‑led approaches in urban, rural and northern communities, so that programs are responsive, culturally appropriate and community-driven. It is a critical step toward addressing the housing crisis and advancing reconciliation, together.”
