URBAN, RURAL AND NORTHERN INDIGENOUS HOUSING STRATEGY & REACHING HOME
WHAT IS THE
URBAN,RURALANDNORTHERN INDIGENOUSHOUSING STRATEGY?
Urban,RuralandNorthern
The 2022 Budget allocated $300 million to co-develop and launch an Indigenous Housing Strategy for urban, rural, and northern communities, in partnership with Indigenous leaders, to address the housing needs of Indigenous Peoples in these areas.
FNHIC will be leading engagement sessions with First Nations in BC to determine the best way to distribute these funds. If you are a member of a BC First Nation and would like to participate, please contact us
address housing challenges for off-reserve members.
Identify immediate and long-term housing needs
Develop solutions tailored to specific populations
Create regionally focused initiatives that align with local priorities
Outcome: An actionable roadmap that guides the execution of housing projects and infrastructure improvements.
2. Funding Allocation for Multi-Year Fiscal Agreements
Purpose: Use community-driven insights to inform the equitable and efficient allocation of funding across participating First Nations.
Prioritize funding based on members off-reserve needs and readiness for implementation
Ensure multi-year fiscal agreements reflect Indigenous perspectives on governance and funding distribution
Build financial models that support sustainable housing development.
Outcome: Transparent and fair funding strategies that address housing disparities and empower community-driven initiatives.
3. Addressing Challenges and Barriers
Purpose: Identify potential challenges in housing development, governance, and infrastructure delivery to mitigate risks.
Understand barriers to accessing resources, including cultural, financial, and logistical issues. Propose solutions to overcome challenges, such as capacity-building programs or technical support.
Incorporate resilience measures to address external factors like climate impacts and funding delays.
Outcome: Proactively address barriers to ensure the successful implementation of housing solutions
4. Strategic Alignment
Purpose: Align community priorities with federal housing strategies and the goals of Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) and Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada (CIRNAC).
Develop a strategic workplan that integrates community feedback into federal housing initiatives
Foster collaborative governance structures that support long-term partnerships between FNHIC and First Nations
Outcome: A cohesive strategy that bridges needs with national housing goals, ensuring accountability and shared ownership of outcomes.
Key Deliverables
A comprehensive report summarizing community feedback on housing needs, priorities, and challenges for off-reserve members.
A strategic workplan that outlines timelines, funding allocations, governance models, and action items.
Recommendations for multi-year fiscal agreements that align with Indigenous goals and federal policies
First Nations Housing and Infrastructure Council
1008 - 100 Park Royal S West Vancouver, BC V7T 1A2
604-259-2929 www fnhic ca urn@fnhic ca reaching home@fnhic ca
URN Regional Funding Allocations for British Columbia Based on 50% Population Off-Reserve + 50% Core Housing Needs
Table 1: Multi-Year funding budgets
Project Expenditures
1. Housing – New Construction
Planning, design, construction, and acquisition of new housing units, including singlefamily units, multi-unit dwellings, mobile homes, and special needs housing such as homes for the elderly, group homes, and homes for individuals requiring assisted living (non-medical care)
2 Housing – Repairs Repairs of existing housing units
3. Housing – Renovations
Renovations of existing housing units
4 Housing-Related Initiatives
Program development, capacity building, service delivery, education, training, research, housing financial literacy, home-buying guidance, and tenancy rights education
5 Addressing Core Housing Needs
Supporting those in greatest need and narrowing the gap in core housing needs between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.
Reaching Home Funding Allocations for British Columbia
Reaching Home: Project Financial Overview
Table 3: Revenue: Project Costs
Project Expenditures
1 Housing Services
Placement, emergency housing, and setup.
2. Prevention and Shelter Diversion
Services aimed at reducing reliance on shelters
3 Client Support Services
Covering basic needs, clinical treatment, economic integration, and social/community integration services
4. Capital Investments
Infrastructure and resources to support housing.
5. Coordination of Resources and Data Collection
Streamlining efforts and improving data tracking
6 Capacity and Skills Development
Building the capabilities of staff and communities
WHAT IS
ReachingHome
“Reaching Home: Canada's Homelessness Strategy is a community-based program aimed at preventing and reducing homelessness across Canada. This program provides funding to urban, Indigenous, rural and remote communities to help them address their local homelessness needs.” housing-infrastructure.canada.ca/homelessness-sans-abri/index-eng.html
FNHIC will be leading engagement sessions with First Nations in BC to determine the best way to distribute these funds If you are a member of a BC First Nation and would like to participate, please contact us.
This funding is intended to:
1.
Address homelessness through First Nations-led solutions that align with community priorities.
2
Support the creation of a First Nations Homelessness Action Plan, informed by data, insights, and community engagement.
Given the limited funds, the allocation strategy must balance immediate needs with long-term planning.
Key Considerations for Allocation
To determine the most effective way to allocate the $1 89 million, the following questions should guide decision-making:
1. How can funding priorities reflect First Nations’ unique needs and values?
Should the funds focus on regional disparities or shared challenges across communities?
How can we ensure that cultural relevance and community ownership are central to the process?
2 What methods can ensure equitable distribution of funds?
Should funds be allocated through collaborative partnerships, direct funding agreements, or a hybrid model?
How can transparency and fairness be maintained in the selection process?
3 What balance should be struck between short-term and long-term goals?
How much should be allocated to immediate projects addressing urgent needs versus activities supporting the homelessness action plan?
What milestones and outcomes should be prioritized?
4 How do we engage stakeholders to align funding with community priorities?
What mechanisms (e.g., workshops, focus groups) can ensure First Nations leadership and community members guide the allocation process?
How do we incorporate feedback to refine the strategy?
Potential Approaches
While issuing a call letter for proposals is one option, alternative approaches may offer better alignment with program objectives and funding constraints These include:
1 Direct Engagement with Communities:
Facilitate workshops and regional consultations to identify priority projects
Allocate funds directly to communities based on immediate needs identified through engagement.
2.Collaborative Regional Partnerships:
Partner with regional First Nations organizations to administer and monitor projects
Support collective initiatives that address systemic challenges or shared priorities
3 Data-Driven Targeting:
Use existing data to identify communities or regions with the greatest need and allocate funding accordingly.
Combine data collection with funding allocation to ensure measurable outcomes and actionable insights
4 Phased Funding Allocation:
Divide funding over multiple years to support both immediate actions and long-term planning
Evaluate outcomes at each phase to guide subsequent funding decisions.
Steps to Finalize the Allocation Strategy
1 Stakeholder Engagement:
Gather input from First Nations leadership, service providers, and community members on funding priorities and allocation methods
2 Evaluation of Alternatives:
Compare the feasibility, impact, and alignment of each proposed approach with the program’s objectives.
Identify strengths and weaknesses of each option to determine the most effective strategy
3 Decision and Implementation:
Finalize the allocation method and communicate the decision to all stakeholders
Establish monitoring and reporting frameworks to ensure accountability and measure outcomes.
ABOUT FNHIC
The First Nations Housing and Infrastructure Council was formally established in the fall of 2017 in response to a political mandate from the members of the BC First Nations Leadership Council, with resolutions from the BC Assembly of First Nations, the First Nations Summit, and the Union of BC Indian Chiefs We are a grassroots service organization working to improve First Nations housing and infrastructure in BC. Our vision is to ensure that every First Nations person has secure and culturally appropriate housing that supports our wellbeing, fosters community resilience, and supports the health of families for future generations
Q&A
CanURNassistwithconsultationand training fees to teach people in our communities"RentReadyPrograms"?
A.FNHICwillberesearchingallaspects associatedwithcommunityneedsandworking withSisterSocietiestocreatestrategiestofill inthegapsbetweenourhousingneedsand issues.
@reallygreatsite
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the URN project?
The URN project aims to co-develop a comprehensive housing strategy with Indigenous partners that addresses housing needs in urban, rural, and northern communities We want to ensure that the strategy reflects Indigenous perspectives, improves housing quality, increases supply, and enhances affordability while advancing self-determination and reconciliation.
Why are we being asked to participate in this project?
Your participation is crucial because the URN project aims to develop a housing strategy that truly reflects the needs and priorities of First Nations communities. We need your input to create solutions that are tailored to your specific housing challenges, ensuring that future housing policies and funding align with your needs and aspirations
How will my community’s input be used?
The feedback gathered from workshops, focus groups, and interviews will directly inform the development of the Strategic Workplan, which will detail funding allocations and governance structures for housing initiatives. Your community’s input will help shape the direction of this project, ensuring it aligns with your priorities and goals.
How can we ensure that this project is aligned with our community’s needs and priorities?
Throughout the project, we will work closely with community leaders, elders, and other members to ensure that your voices are heard. We'll hold in-person workshops, virtual meetings, and focus groups, and we’ll continuously check back to validate that the work being done aligns with your needs Additionally, the engagement process includes a final report that outlines your community’s specific feedback and recommendations
What kind of housing solutions are being considered?
The project is designed to explore a range of solutions that address the specific needs of your community, from improving housing quality to increasing supply and making housing more affordable. We are particularly focused on developing culturally relevant solutions, which means we’ll work with you to ensure that the housing options we consider are appropriate for your lifestyle, culture, and environment
How will this project contribute to self-determination for our community?
The URN project places a strong emphasis on self-determination by ensuring that Indigenous communities play a leading role in shaping the housing strategy. This means that you will have a direct say in the governance structures, funding priorities, and the types of housing that are developed. Our goal is to support your community in taking control of housing decisions, so that they reflect your values and goals
What will be the role of federal and provincial partners in this project?
Federal and provincial partners, like Indigenous Services Canada and Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada, will provide support in strategic planning and funding governance Their role will be to ensure that the initiatives align with broader policy frameworks and that funding is allocated effectively. However, the primary decision-making and direction will be led by the Indigenous communities involved.
How will vulnerable populations, including women, children, elders, single-parent families, and LGBTQIA2S+ individuals, be included in the housing discussions?
The project is designed to address the unique needs of diverse vulnerable populations by organizing targeted workshops and focus groups. These sessions will ensure that the housing strategy is inclusive and reflects the needs of women, children, elders, singleparent families, and LGBTQIA2S+ individuals. Our goal is to develop solutions that are accessible, safe, and appropriate for all members of the community, fostering equity and inclusivity in housing options.
What is the timeline for the project, and when will we see results?
The project will start on December 1, 2024, and end on March 31, 2025, with engagement activities taking place between February and March. The final report and results will be shared in April 2025. However, community feedback and priorities will be incorporated into the planning throughout the engagement phase, so you will see ongoing progress and updates
How will the project ensure that the housing solutions are culturally appropriate?
Throughout the engagement process, we will work with community leaders, elders, and community members to ensure that all housing solutions are culturally appropriate and respect traditional knowledge and ways of life. The development of the housing strategy will include an in-depth consultation process to ensure that the final plan aligns with cultural values and practices.
What happens after the project ends?
After the project concludes, the strategic workplan and recommendations will help guide future housing projects in your community. The goal is to create a roadmap for the next several years of housing initiatives. Additionally, ongoing collaboration and communication will be key to ensuring that the project’s outcomes are implemented effectively and that funding continues to be aligned with community priorities
How do we ensure that the funding is allocated fairly and transparently?
The project includes a transparent process for funding allocation, with regular updates and checkpoints. We’ll involve community members and leaders in the decision making process to ensure that the allocation of funds aligns with your specific needs and priorities. Additionally, the final report will include clear recommendations on funding and governance structures.
Can URN assist with consultation and training fees to teach people in our communities "Rent Ready Programs"?
FNHIC will be researching all aspects associated with community needs and working with Sister Societies to create strategies to fill in the gaps between our housing needs and issues
Will URN be able to allocate funds for off reserve renters needing "promise to pay" allotments and bereavement time away from work to assist with rental payments?
FNHIC will certainly be willing to research these needs in your community and work with associated service providers to access funding and support.
$100.00 is not enough for people to travel in the North, how do we get involved if we can't afford to make it in the in-person meeting?
The project includes a small travel budge however we will be doing Zoom meetings and engagements over the next couple months.
First Nations Housing and Infrastructure Council - BC
1008 - 100 Park Royal S
West Vancouver, BC V7T 1A2
News & Media
November 28, 2024
604-259-2929
www fnhic ca
urn@fnhic ca reaching home@fnhic ca
NICHI announces British Columbia recipients of funding to advance critical Indigenous housing projects in urban, rural and northern areas and address urgent and unmet needs
November 28, 2024 Surrey, Unceded territory of Coast Salish Peoples, British Columbia
Today, National Indigenous Collaborative Housing Incorporated (NICHI) Chief Executive Officer John Gordon and Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor, Patty Hajdu, announced the recipients of NICHI’s expression of need process to address the critical need for safe and affordable urban, rural and northern Indigenous housing projects in British Columbia.
Today’s announcement includes close to $26 8 million in funding for 16 projects in British Columbia led by:
Victoria Native Friendship Centre
Secwépmec Child and Family Services Agency
Aboriginal Coalition to End Homelessness
Fort St John Native Housing Society
Dakelh & Quesnel Community Housing Society
Citaapi Mahtii Housing Society
Dakelh & Quesnel Community Housing Society
Kekinow Indigenous Programs and Services Society
Aboriginal Housing Society of Prince George
Island Urban Indigenous Wellness Society
Tillicum Lelum Aboriginal Society
ALT Jackson Housing Society
Lu’ma Native BCH Housing Society
ALT Commercial Housing Society
Sanala Culturally Supportive Housing Society
Kekinow Native Housing Society
Through the national process, $277.8 million out of a total funding amount of $281.5 million is being distributed to 75 projects across the country aimed at building more than 3800 units. This funding was provided to Indigenous Services Canada through Budget 2022 and distributed by NICHI, applying its “For Indigenous, By Indigenous” approach NICHI brings together Indigenousled housing, homelessness, and housing-related service delivery organizations to provide lasting solutions that address diverse housing inadequacies, including homelessness for Indigenous Peoples living in urban, rural and northern areas.
Over 171,000 Indigenous Peoples in urban, rural and northern areas off reserve are in core housing need according to the 2021 Census Indigenous Peoples continue to experience core housing needs at a significantly higher rate than non-Indigenous people with the gap between them being exacerbated by the housing and homelessness crisis and by inadequacies in distinctions-based funding Through a For Indigenous, By Indigenous approach to Indigenous housing that recognizes Indigenous organizations are best placed to understand the needs of their communities, Indigenous Services Canada is striving to close this gap by 2030.
Access to safe and affordable housing is critical to improving health and social outcomes and ensuring a better future for Indigenous communities This funding initiative is part of the Government of Canada’s commitment to address the social determinants of health and advance self-determination in alignment with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Articles 21 and 23.
Quick facts
On June 8, 2023, the Government of Canada announced that the National Indigenous Collaborative Housing Inc (NICHI) would deliver $281 5 million in immediate funding over 2 years to address the urgent, unmet needs of Indigenous Peoples living in urban, rural and northern areas
NICHI held its expression of need process from late November 2023 to January 12, 2024, and funding was allocated to 75 non-profit, Indigenous-led housing organizations by an objective, unbiased Project Selection Advisory Council, which prioritized urgent and unmet housing needs in Indigenous communities across the country $3 7 million of the total funding amount remains to be allocated The National Indigenous Collaborative Housing Inc (NICHI) is an Indigenous-led national housing organization working to ensure that all Indigenous Peoples across Canada have access to supports and services that provide safe, affordable, secure and dignified housing.
Support for projects will include funding for acquisitions of new properties and buildings, construction of new facilities, repairs and renovations, housing-related training, growing organizational capacity and administration costs
First Nations Housing and Infrastructure Council - BC
1008 - 100 Park Royal S West Vancouver, BC V7T 1A2
604-259-2929
www fnhic ca
urn@fnhic ca reaching home@fnhic ca
Subject: Invitation to Participate in the Urban, Rural, and Northern Indigenous Housing Engagement Initiative
We are excited to invite you to participate in the Urban, Rural, and Northern Indigenous Housing Engagement initiative. This program represents a significant opportunity to shape the future of housing and address homelessness challenges for Indigenous communities across British Columbia. In the 2024/25 fiscal year, a total of $19 million has been allocated to address housing challenges, alongside $1.8 million to tackle homelessness. Your input is essential to ensuring these funds are utilized effectively to meet the unique needs and priorities of your community Additionally, this initiative will give you the opportunity to provide input into the development of multi-year funding agreements and contribute to shaping a long-term action plan to address homelessness.
To prepare for your participation in the upcoming workshops, we have enclosed the following materials:
Funding Budgets: Details on the allocation of funds.
Info Sheet: Key highlights of the engagement initiative.
Workshop Agenda: Outline of discussion topics and goals
Feedback Form: A template for sharing your perspectives.
Consent Form: Information on data privacy and consent
Questionnaire Surveys: Designed to collect specific feedback.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): Answers to common queries.
Nichi News Article: Additional context on the engagement process. What We Heard Reports: Insights gathered from past engagements with FNHIC and CMHC.
Dates and Locations of Workshops
TBA
Instructions for Participation
Please review the enclosed materials before the workshop. Complete the surveys and consent forms as directed Bring your feedback and ideas to share during the sessions. If you have any relevant documents, such as previous housing strategies, community development plans, or reports, we encourage you to bring them to share with the First Nations Housing & Infrastructure Council (FNHIC) These materials will help inform and enrich our discussions.
Your contributions will play a pivotal role in shaping the Urban, Rural, and Northern Indigenous Housing Strategy and Reaching Home initiatives on homelessness. Together, we can ensure that these resources address the housing needs of Indigenous Peoples across BC while promoting self-determination, sustainability, and community well-being.
Thank you for your valuable insights and commitment to this important initiative.
Sincerely,
Ruby
Workshop Feedback Form Urban, Rural, and Northern & Reaching Home: Engagement
Section 1: General Information
1. Please indicate your role (e.g., community leader, housing coordinator, elder, etc.):
2. Have you participated in FNHIC engagements before?
☐ Yes
☐ No
Section 2: Workshop Content
3. How would you rate the following aspects of the workshop? (1 = Poor, 5 = Excellent)
Aspect
Clarity of the workshop objectives
1 2 3 4 5
Comments:
Relevance of the content
Usefulness of the materials provided
Engagement and interactivity
Cultural relevance of the discussion
Section 3: Facilitation
4. How effective was the facilitation in supporting discussion and engagement?
☐ Very Ineffective
☐ Ineffective
☐ Neutral
☐ Effective
☐ Very Effective
5. Did the facilitators ensure that all voices were heard and respected?
☐ Strongly Disagree
☐ Disagree
☐ Neutral
☐ Agree
☐ Strongly Agree
Section 4: Outcomes
6. To what extent did the workshop achieve its objectives?
☐ Not at all
☐ Slightly
☐ Moderately
☐ Very
☐ Completely
7. What key insights or takeaways did you gain from the workshop?
Section 5: Suggestions and Additional Comments
8 What could be improved in future workshops?
9. Additional comments or suggestions:
Section 6: Follow-Up (Optional)
10 Would you like to be involved in future engagements or receive updates about the project?
☐ Yes (Please provide your contact information below)
☐ No
Name (optional):
Email/Phone:
Thank you for your feedback! Your insights are invaluable to improving our engagement efforts.
