First Nations Elders, families and seniors are moving into 20 new, on-reserve rental homes in two communities.

“These high-quality residences will keep our members safe and warm right in our traditional communities,” said Chief Wilf Adam, Lake Babine Nation. “It is important to open the doors for Lake Babine Nation people to live as close to the ancestors as possible, and these housing projects address those residential needs right on the shores of home.”
 
This development will be owned and operated by the Lake Babine Nation and is designed to reflect the housing strategy of their communities. This means the homes are of suitable size and rents are within reach for Nation members.

“Housing is about more than a place to live, it helps people stay connected to their community, culture and loved ones,” said Christine Boyle, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs. “These new homes will provide Lake Babine Nation members with safe, affordable housing that supports strong, resilient communities in Tachet and Wit’at.”

Multi-unit homes available in both communities

The new project offers a total of 20 two- and four-bedroom homes in the villages of Tachet and Wit’At, six two-bedroom, wheelchair-accessible homes in each village and four four-bedroom homes in each village

“The government is proud to work alongside Lake Babine Nation and the government of British Columbia to create housing solutions that reflect the community’s needs and priorities,” said Mandy Gull-Masty, federal Minister of Indigenous Services. “These new homes in Tachet and Wit’at will help Elders, individuals and families remain connected to their community, culture and traditions, while providing the stability and security that all people deserve access to.”

This project is part of a $19-billion housing investment by the B.C. government. In 2018, B.C. became the first and only province in Canada to invest in First Nations housing on reserves, a federal jurisdiction.

Since 2017, the Province has more than 99,000 homes delivered or underway, including almost 8,600 homes for Indigenous people, on and off reserve.