Brantford Breaks Ground on Affordable Housing for Indigenous Families

Brantford Native Housing (BNH) recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for an affordable housing development aimed at supporting Indigenous families. The event attracted nearly 50 attendees and marked the beginning of a project that will create 18 housing units on West Street, specifically designed for Indigenous families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. The units will be offered at below market rent, addressing a critical need within the community.

The development will feature a combination of one- and two-bedroom apartments along with office space, programming areas, and both indoor and outdoor green spaces, including a traditional medicine garden. Funding for the project has been bolstered by a significant contribution of $10 million from the National Indigenous Collaborative Housing Incorporated (NICHI) and $5 million from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). The design has been entrusted to Smoke Architecture, a team composed entirely of Indigenous and women leaders, while construction is being handled by Paulsan Construction Inc.

Significance of the Project

The ceremony began with a blessing from Elder Gail Whitlow, who emphasized the importance of acknowledging the land’s ancestral spirits. “One of the reasons we do a blessing is because the ancestors that walked before us are still walking among us,” she stated. Her words highlighted a cultural practice that honors the history of the land and its connection to the present.

Following the blessing, Shane Bomberry, vice-president of BNH’s board of directors, spoke passionately about the historical context of the project. “The story of Indigenous people in Brantford has been marked by generations of pain, trauma, and displacement,” he noted. Bomberry articulated that the new housing represents not just physical structures but a pathway toward healing and cultural security. He remarked, “Housing for our people means cultural security. It means children will grow up in a safe and stable community.”

Mayor Kevin Davis also addressed the audience, highlighting the city’s commitment to reconciliation. He stated that the City of Brantford has contributed approximately $1.1 million towards the construction costs and has waived around $50,000 in permitting fees. His remarks underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in fostering a sustainable future for all community members.

A Vision for Healing and Reconciliation

During the event, John Gordon, Chief Executive Director of NICHI, praised BNH’s ongoing commitment to supporting Indigenous families. He remarked, “The Brantford Street West Project demonstrates what can happen when Indigenous-led solutions are supported and trusted.” Gordon’s acknowledgment of BNH’s leadership reinforced the project’s community-centric approach.

Alma Arguello, Executive Director of BNH, concluded the ceremony by reiterating the significance of the project as a reflection of Truth and Reconciliation. She emphasized that reconciliation involves actionable steps from allies and community members. “This build is what Truth and Reconciliation looks like in action,” Arguello stated, further explaining that the initiative embodies dignity, respect, and cultural safety for Indigenous families.

As the community embraces this new development, the groundbreaking event serves as a symbol of hope and healing. It marks the beginning of a legacy focused on resilience, reclamation, and a future where Indigenous families can thrive in a supportive environment.