Lesson 1:

Introduction to Housing Programs in Canada

Housing programs in Canada are varied and comprehensive, developed with the aim of ensuring that every Canadian citizen has an affordable and secure place to call home. These initiatives, administered at federal, provincial, and local levels, aim to improve access to affordable, safe, and quality housing, particularly for those most vulnerable, including low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.

A Brief History of Housing Programs in Canada

Canada’s journey towards comprehensive housing programs began in the aftermath of World War II, in 1946, with the establishment of the Central Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), now known as the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. The creation of the CMHC signaled the beginning of significant federal involvement in housing, which originally focused on meeting the needs of returning war veterans and stimulating post-war employment.

In the 1960s and 70s, the focus of housing programs shifted towards the provision of public housing and rental supplements to address the affordable housing issue. During this period, various provinces established their housing corporations to administer programs at the provincial level.

The 1990s saw a significant devolution of housing responsibilities from the federal to the provincial and territorial level. This led to a period of diversity in housing programs as provinces and territories developed strategies and programs to meet their unique needs. The new millennium saw the launch of the Affordable Housing Initiative (AHI) in 2001 to increase the supply of affordable housing across the country.

National Housing Strategy

In 2017, the Government of Canada launched the first-ever National Housing Strategy (NHS) in Canada. This is a 10-year, $55+ billion plan that aims to give more Canadians a place to call home. The NHS sets bold goals, including reducing chronic homelessness by 50% and removing more than 530,000 households from housing need. It recognizes housing as a fundamental human right and intends to ensure stable housing for all Canadians.

The National Housing Strategy came into effect because of growing concerns about housing affordability, homelessness, and the condition of Canada’s housing stock. It was created to provide a coordinated, nationwide approach to tackle these challenges. It emphasizes a collaborative approach, with federal, provincial, and territorial governments working together with municipalities, Indigenous governments and organizations, the non-profit sector, and the private sector.

Key elements of the strategy include the National Housing Co-Investment Fund, the Canada Housing Benefit, and initiatives targeted at Northern and Indigenous housing. The NHS also has a strong emphasis on data and research, recognizing the need for sound evidence to guide housing policy and decision-making.

Watch: The Right to Housing in Canada

First Nations Housing: Programs and Funding

Following our exploration of the National Housing Strategy (NHS), it’s important to recognize the specific housing needs and rights of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities within this framework. A multitude of programs and funding opportunities exist, designed to address and bolster housing for these communities. These initiatives range from supporting the construction of new housing to renovating existing structures, fostering capacity-building activities, and even spurring innovation in Indigenous housing solutions. The housing programs are largely administered by organizations such as the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), Aboriginal Housing Management Association (AHMA), and Indigenous Services Canada (ISC). They include:

Saskatchewan Housing Programs and Funding

1. Saskatchewan Housing Corporation (SHC) On-Reserve Housing Program:
   1. How to Apply
      Applications for the On-Reserve Housing Program are typically managed through the First Nation’s band office or housing manager. Reach out to your local office or representative to inquire about the process and any necessary documentation required.
   2. Eligibility Criteria
      While specific eligibility criteria can vary, it generally includes the following:
      • The project must be located on a reserve in Saskatchewan.
      • The applicant is a First Nation or tribal council.
      • The project must include the construction of rental housing units.
      • The units must be intended for low-to-moderate-income households.
      • The project must meet the housing quality standards established by SHC.
2. Saskatchewan Housing Corporation (SHC) General Funding:
   1. How to Apply
      Applications for funding can usually be found on the SHC’s official website or obtained from a local SHC office. Once completed, applications must be submitted to the SHC for review.
   2. Eligibility Criteria
      General criteria for funding often include the following:
      • The applicant must be a registered non-profit organization, community group, or First Nation.
      • The project must include new construction, renovations, or home conversions.
      • The housing units must serve low-income individuals and families.
      • The project must align with SHC’s priorities and policies.

General Application Steps

As a housing manager in a First Nations community, applying for one of these housing initiatives generally involves the following steps:

1. Identify Suitable Program
   Review the different programs to identify which one is most suitable for your community’s needs. Consider factors like the type of housing support needed (construction, renovation, etc.), the funding or loan amounts available, and the specific criteria for each program.
2. Gather Information
   Collect all relevant information needed for the application. This might include details about the community’s housing needs, the proposed housing project, financial information about the community and its members, and any other information specified in the program’s application guidelines.
3. Complete Application
   Once all the necessary information has been gathered, complete the application form provided by the program. This might involve filling out an online form, writing a proposal or application letter, or a combination of these.
4. Submit Application
   Submit your completed application before the deadline specified by the program. Depending on the program, this might involve submitting the application online, mailing it, or delivering it in person.
5. Follow Up
   After submitting your application, you might need to follow up with the program administrator or a government representative. They can provide updates about the status of your application and any additional steps that might be needed. For individual band members, the process might look slightly different. Band members may need to work with their band office or housing manager to apply for housing support. In some cases, individual band members might be eligible to apply for certain programs directly, such as the First Nations Market Housing Fund. Please note that these are general steps, and the actual process can vary depending on the specific program and the policies of the federal government or the administering organization. Always refer to the most recent and detailed information from official government resources or directly contact the relevant department or organization for assistance.

Impact of First Nations’ Housing Needs on Local Resources

First Nations communities in Canada face unique housing challenges, which can have significant impacts on local resources. These impacts can be categorized into social, economic, and environmental areas.

1. Social Impact
   Housing shortages can lead to overcrowded living conditions, contributing to various social problems such as poor health outcomes and decreased educational attainment. Overcrowding can also exacerbate issues like substance abuse and violence, impacting community wellbeing and safety. Further, housing challenges can strain social services, like healthcare, education, and child protection services, in these communities.
2. Economic Impact
   Economic resources can be heavily affected by the housing needs of First Nations communities. The cost of building and maintaining housing in these often-remote locations can be significant, requiring substantial financial investments. In communities where housing is insufficient or of poor quality, job prospects may also be affected. For instance, potential employers may be discouraged from setting up operations if adequate housing for workers isn’t available. This can result in lost economic opportunities, affecting local and regional economies.
3. Environmental Impact
   The construction of housing and associated infrastructure can have significant environmental impacts. For example, construction activities might disrupt local ecosystems and habitats. Additionally, without sustainable housing practices, there could be increased waste and energy consumption. Also, in some northern First Nations communities, permafrost thaw due to climate change poses challenges to housing stability and safety, impacting local environmental management efforts.

Lastly, it’s important to note that access to local resources can also impact housing. For instance, in remote First Nations communities, access to resources such as building materials and skilled labour can be limited, making the construction and maintenance of homes challenging and expensive.

Addressing the housing needs in First Nations communities therefore calls for comprehensive, sustainable strategies that consider these social, economic, and environmental impacts. Initiatives that include First Nations’ input and leadership, incorporate traditional knowledge, and respect the rights and treaties of these communities are key in achieving long-term solutions.