MCK Enhanced Community Housing – New Funding

KANAWAKE – The Housing Unit of the Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke (MCK) is pleased to announce the approval of funding allocations in the amount of approximately $2 million, aimed at new housing initiatives for the community. The funding is allocated through Kahnawà:ke Shakotiia’takenhnas Community Services (KSCS) as part of an agreement in principle on Long Term Reform of the First Nations Child and Family Services Program and Jordan’s Principle, with the source of funds coming from Indigenous Services Canada.

In a significant step towards addressing housing needs within the community, the funds will be allocated to the MCK Housing Unit under the following programs: New Construction of Conceptual Community Housing ($400,000), Construction of three (3) units intended for families ($900,000), and a Renovations Fund Pilot Project for Private Homes ($700,000).

Recognizing the need to maximize land use, Conceptual Community Housing will seek the services of an architect to design two complexes with fifteen or more units in each, with a mixture of single and two-bedroom units to meet the needs of single and elderly people, those with disabilities, and smaller families. The intent is to build up rather than wide. With the under-served funding to the Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program (RRAP) not meeting the needs of the community, the intent of the new pilot project is to allow family homeowners to access funds for repairs/renovations through a grant. This new pilot project program will allow community members greater access to funds that have always been limited through the RRAP due to low funding amounts or long waiting lists.

This is the first time that the MCK Housing Unit has accessed large amounts of funding outside of the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. “There has been a tremendous amount of work done over the last few years,” said Executive Operations Officer Alan John Rice. “While there is still much work to do, we’re happy to make this announcement now, as these are just a few of the projects that will greatly improve our housing situation in the community.”

The MCK is proud of the significant efforts made over the last several years towards enhancing housing services. While these new developments are reason for celebration, these projects are just a fraction of the ongoing commitment of the organization, KSCS, and those who strive to better the housing situation in the community. Details on accessing the programs will be announced when ready for implementation.