HAMILTON, ON (October 26, 2022) Two of eastern Ontario’s fastest-growing Habitat for Humanity affiliates, Habitat Heartland and Habitat Hamilton, are teaming to help to deliver a new affordable housing development on the Six Nations of the Grand River Reserve. Construction will begin on the five-unit rental properties in 2022, and they will be built on Harold Road in Ohsweken as a collaborative effort between the two Habitat for Humanity affiliates. The project received $1,066,304 in funding, which was generously donated by the Six Nations of the Grand River Economic Development Trust, and $500K allocated from Six Nation’s 20/21 Indigenous Services Canada enhanced funding. By partnering with neighbouring Habitat for Humanity affiliates, it will help ensure that the project will be completed within budget at a time where costs are volatile and often rising.
“This partnership represents the spirit of reconciliation. When non-indigenous entities step forward to provide meaningful support to First Nations peoples and communities, with no expectation of a reward, it shows their commitment to improving our quality of life” said Lily-Anne Mt Pleasant, Acting Director and Finance Control Officer at Six Nations. “Our discussions with Six Nations began back in 2013. After repeated discussion on how our policies and missions align, we’re pleased to announce this partnership officially” said Sean Ferris, CEO of Habitat for Humanity Hamilton. “We are thrilled to be part of this collaboration,” said Alan MacKinnon, Interim CEO of Habitat Heartland Ontario. “Affordable housing in Canada is an issue that affects many of us, but the problems are disproportionately acute regarding Indigenous communities and families. We are excited to build with Six Nations of the Grand River and bring our expertise to the need for safe, decent, affordable housing.”
Six Nations of the Grand River
The Six Nations of the Grand River Reserve unifies all Haudenosaunee peoples under the Great Tree of Peace. It is currently the only First Nation community that includes all six Haudenosaunee nations. Located along the banks of the Grand River, the Six Nations of the Grand River is the most populous First Nation in Canada. www.sixnations.ca
Habitat for Humanity
Habitat for Humanity envisions a world where everyone has a safe and decent place to live. With world-class project build execution, we foster and build equity through affordable housing, by fully integrating diversity and inclusion into everything we do. Every individual involved with Habitat feels safe and encouraged to bring their whole selves to our mission and they know they are valued, heard, and respected. With 50 affiliates serving 400 communities across Canada, hundreds of families receive keys to a Habitat home annually. www.habitat.ca | www.ebmediatestsite.ca/test8 | www.Habitat4home.ca