Two projects geared towards addressing housing issues for Indigenous residents are on the receiving end of $1.7 million from the Ontario Government through it Social Services Relief Fund.

$1.3 million is being directed towards a joint project between Mattawa Non-Profit Housing Corporation and Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services to construct six two bedroom affordable housing units.

OAHS Chair Cora McGuire-Cyrette says she is excited with the announcement but notes long term sustainable funding is required.

“Approximately 10 thousand core housing needs are needed just for the Indigenous community alone, and so this is the right step in the right direction.”

The remaining $400,000 will go to Dilico Anishinabek Family care to create 10 transitional housing units at a facility on Yonge Street for youth experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless.

That project had previously received $400,000 through the Thunder Bay District Social Services Administration Board and the Social Services Relief Fund.

Speaking to reporters following the announcement Thunder Bay – Atikokan MPP Kevin Holland admits there is a housing crisis in Ontario and says these two projects fit into the Ford Government’s plan to build 1.5 million homes across the province.

“These are things that we need, we need to have the homes constructed to address homelessness, and that we have a strong commitment to see that happen.”

Holland adds the population of the province is expected to increase by two million people over the next 10 years, but notes a majority of that will be in southern Ontario.