THUNDER BAY, ON – The Reverend Tommy Beardy Memorial Wee Che He Wayo-Gamik Family Treatment Centre (RTBFTC) in Muskrat Dam and Thunder Bay has been awarded $10 million from the National Indigenous Collaborative Housing Inc. (NICHI) fund.
Established in late 2022, the NICHI fund aims to address critical housing needs of Indigenous peoples in urban, rural, and northern communities. The program adopts a strategic approach built on the principle of “For Indigenous By Indigenous.”
Indigenous Services Canada Minister and Thunder Bay Superior North MP, Patty Hajdu, made the announcement in Thunder Bay. Minister Hajdu stated, “I am very pleased to make this announcement. I know the RTBFTC and similar organizations nationwide will ensure that all 74 funded projects announced today will quickly and effectively respond to local needs.”
The Executive Director of RTBFTC, William Kaminawash, highlighted the significance of the program in addressing the housing needs of underserved Indigenous groups. “As we know from our work at RTBFTC, when housing is inadequate or unavailable, personal and community well-being can suffer. The NICHI funds, to be used for constructing residential units in two locations in Thunder Bay, will also make an important contribution to better mental health and community health outcomes.”
Shane Diakunchak, RTBFTC Senior Policy Advisor, noted, “We are honored to be selected as one of the 74 projects nationwide. We are committed to efficiently deploying this funding to address the critical housing shortage for Indigenous people. We extend our gratitude to the City of Thunder Bay and other local contributors for their support in advancing this crucial initiative.”
Mr. Kaminawash emphasized the importance of Minister Hajdu’s announcement and the federal government’s support in addressing housing challenges faced by Thunder Bay and similar communities nationwide.
