Housing is reconciliation

Funding for new housing development at Pimatisiwin site

Townhouse style development for 56 people slated for parking lot of former Sands Hotel. | Supplied

A small group of supporters gathered at Pimatisiwin (former Sands Hotel) on Fort Road on Nov. 4 to learn more about a 14-unit townhouse style development, to be located on land owned by NiGiNan Housing Ventures.

Funding for the project came through the National Indigenous Collaborative Housing Incorporated (NICHI). NICHI brings together Indigenous-led housing and housing-related service delivery organizations to provide lasting solutions for populations experiencing housing inadequacies, including unhoused Indigenous Peoples living in urban, rural, and northern areas.

This announcement includes more than $22.3 million in funding for five projects in Alberta led by Aboriginal Housing Society, Buffalo Keeper Nehiyaw Centre, NiGiNan Housing Ventures (two projects), and Wood Buffalo Wellness Society.

Keri Cardinal, CEO of NiGiNan Housing, thanked the board, staff, and residents for journeying together in a healing model based on love.

The healing model takes time. People who have been street-involved or are living with addiction or mental health challenges can be in supportive housing, back to the streets, and then try again with supportive housing. NiGiNan offers non-judgmental support to its residents. However, community residents aren’t always supportive of these housing initiatives. Morgan Wolf, vice-president of the Elmwood Park Community League, wants more consultation with the community. “Residents report an increase in crime and social disorder since Pimatisiwin opened,” she says.

During the announcement, word arrived of the death of Senator Murray Sinclair, who chaired the National Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Edmonton Griesbach MP Blake Desjarlais invited attendees to observe a moment of silence. “This kind of housing is part of the work and obligation of reconciliation,” he said afterwards. “In the nine years since the 94 Calls to Action were presented to Canadians, only 15 actions have been completed. At this rate, we should have those actions all completed in 65 years. Our people need housing now, we can’t wait.”

“Housing saves lives. NiGiNan is recognized nationally for its work in building housing models that include culture as part of the healing process,” added Desjarlais.

Across Alberta, provincial government numbers show the rate of unintentional opioid deaths is more than eight times higher among First Nations Peoples.

Pimatisiwin presently has emergency space for 55 individuals and supportive (permanent) housing for 60 more. The new development will house another 56 people. Other services include medical attention and meal preparation. Cultural workers lead pipe ceremonies and healing circles, and residents have opportunities to have some land-based experiences.

“We have completed the development permit request and are just waiting on a decision. We hope to have a spring 2025 start and be finished by summer 2026,” said Cardinal.