Canada Partners with the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne to Build Multi-unit homes in the Community

MOHAWK COUNCIL OF AKWESASNE, ON, Nov. 21, 2016 /CNW/ - Housing is a fundamental need and all Canadians, including First Nations people, should have the security of a safe and healthy home. 

Today, the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs, announced that the Government of Canada is partnering with the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne to build two multi-unit homes in the community to house 20 people. 

These two new triplexes will provide quality and affordable housing for income-assistance-dependent families and single parents in the community, using innovative solutions to maximize the use of resources and share costs. The project is expected to be completed by March 31, 2018.

The Government of Canada is providing over $800,000 through Budget 2016 toward the project while the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne is contributing $118,000.

Significant investments in Budget 2016, such as the one being announced today, will continue to be focused on improving housing conditions in First Nation communities to reduce overcrowding and safeguard residents' health and wellbeing.

Quotes

"Investing in housing is about investing in people and communities. These multi-unit housing facilities are an outstanding example of what can be accomplished when we work in partnership with First Nations like Akwesasne to meet the housing needs of community members."

The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, M.D., P.C., M.P.
Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs

"Housing is one of our community's most pressing needs. Land shortages, mortgage limitations for First Nations, and an overall lack of affordable or adequate homes all contribute to our need for housing funds and development. We are pleased to partner with the Government of Canada in an effort to reduce the need for housing in our community."

Grand Chief Abram Benedict
Mohawk Council of Akwesasne

Quick Facts

• To address short-term housing needs in First Nation communities, Budget 2016 invests $554.3 million over two years starting in 2016-2017.
• The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne is located in Ontario, Quebec and northwestern New York State, adjacent to Cornwall, Ontario and has an on-reserve population of approximately 9,600.

Associated Links

Mohawk Council of Akwesasne

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SOURCE Government of Canada

Sabrina Williams, Press Secretary, Office of the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, 613-697-8316; INAC Media Relations, Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada, 819-953-1160