NEWS RELEASE
SERPENT RIVER FIRST NATION
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Serpent River First Nation (SRFN) has announced significant progress in its housing priority project, a critical initiative addressing the urgent need for safe and adequate housing within the community.
Deputy Chief Wilma-Lee Johnston shared the exciting news, marking a new chapter in the community's journey toward securing stable and comfortable homes for all its members.
Rapid progress through strategic partnerships:
In mid-March, SRFN submitted two applications for the CMHC Rapid Housing Initiative Round 3, requesting $7,767,067 to fund the construction of seven duplexes and two five-plexes.
"We are excited to announce that we received verbal confirmation in July that both applications were successful," stated Deputy Chief Johnston. "This achievement is a testament to our community's resilience and determination to uplift every member while addressing the National Housing Crisis at a Community level"
Financial collaboration ensuring success:
The project, totalling $9,140,725, has been supported by the CMHC Rapid Housing Initiative, the Community Development Wrap Around Initiative (CDWAI), and Indigenous Services Canada Lot Servicing and Preparation.
"This collaboration underlines our commitment to empowering our community through sustainable and strategic housing initiatives," Deputy Chief Johnston emphasized.
A vision coming to life:
The first of the prefabricated duplexes is set to arrive this week, with subsequent deliveries scheduled weekly until all have arrived. These modular homes, chosen for their rapid deployment capability, will provide 14 families with new, safe, and comfortable living spaces within an impressively short six-month timeframe from approval to occupation.
"We will surpass our initial target of 25% occupancy by the end of November, we are now projecting an inspiring 50%," shared Deputy Chief Johnston. "It's more than just hitting a target; it's about bringing our community vision of 'A Home for Every Member' to life."
Sharing success and knowledge:
SRFN's remarkable journey in housing development was recently spotlighted at the CDWAI National Gathering in Fredericton, New Brunswick. "Our story is an inspiring model for other First Nations," said Deputy Chief Johnston. "While in Fredericton, our team also had the opportunity to visit Maple Leaf Homes, witnessing firsthand the construction of these critical housing solutions."
Our Vision Serpent River First Nation will have self-sufficient people within a community of caring and compassionate families. Our Mission Serpent River First Nation will use all available financial, human, natural, technological and cultural resources to achieve self-sufficiency through the efforts of all Community Members. Our strong and unique cultural and spiritual identity will drive us to ensure a healthy community that is safe and secure for all generations
A promise of empowerment and unity:
Underlining the Nation's values of respect, wisdom, truth, and empowerment, the Serpent River First Nation remains steadfast in its commitment to transparency and community involvement. "Every step forward in our housing journey is a step towards strengthening our community," concluded Deputy Chief Wilma-Lee Johnston. "Together, we're building more than houses; we're crafting a future where every member has a safe, nurturing place to call home."
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