Local agency getting a boost as part of an investment in Indigenous housing

Nov 17, 2025 | 1:59 PM

The local organization that provides housing options for Indigenous Peoples is getting a boost.

The province said a portion of a 2023 investment of $29-million to the Aboriginal Housing Management Association would go towards the Vernon Native Housing Society to help “keep existing homes safe and secure for residents.”

The province reaffirmed the support for the local agency while also announcing a two Indigenous-led housing projects. Those will see a total of 45 new affordable homes built in Cranbrook and Fort Nelson.

“Indigenous housing providers have been leading the way in creating safe, culturally grounded homes,” Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs Christine Boyle stated.

“These projects show what’s possible when we work in partnership to support Indigenous-led solutions that meet the needs of communities.”

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These new projects, which were expected to see ground broken in the spring of 2026, were prioritized by the Aboriginal Housing Management Association (AHMA) through consultations with members and the community.

“AHMA members have put all of this capital funding to good work,” Margaret Pfoh, CEO of AHMA, stated.

“As urban Indigenous housing experts, AHMA members consistently deliver results at the speed, scope and scale today’s housing crisis demands. We support community needs across B.C. and we will continue this important work as dedicated provincial partners.”

The local MLA also touted the investment and the use of the money for the new housing project.

“Safe, affordable housing is the foundation for strong, healthy communities,” Harwinder Sandhu, MLA for Vernon-Lumby, said.

“These Indigenous-led projects will do more than build homes, they’ll create places where families can connect, culture can flourish and future generations can thrive. By supporting Indigenous housing providers, we’re investing in dignity, community and the strength of self-determination.”

Along with supporting the Vernon Native Housing Society and funding the construction of the two new housing projects, the provincial investment was also being used to upgrade existing spaces through the M’akola Housing Society, acquire a three-unit home for the Dze L K’ant Friendship Centre in Smithers, and support a new housing project by Wilma’s Transition Society in Chilliwack.

by Liam Verster

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