In Nahanni Butte, N.W.T., Lory Ann Bertrand and her family recently moved into a new two-bedroom trailer, part of a rent-to-own program by the Nahanni Butte Dene Band. This marks a significant milestone for Bertrand, who had previously lived with her parents. The new home is one of six recently purchased to address the community’s ongoing housing shortage. The homes were funded by a combination of $5.5 million from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s rapid housing initiative, $500,000 from Housing N.W.T., and $890,000 from the Nahanni Butte Dene Band.
The community, with a population of around 85 people, has faced serious housing challenges. A 2021 census revealed that half of the existing 35 units required major repairs, and an internal survey indicated a need for 21 new homes by 2026. Chief Steve Vital emphasized that the new homes are part of a broader effort to provide affordable housing for young parents, particularly those employed locally. These homes are expected to ease overcrowding, which has seen up to 10 people living in small houses.
Looking ahead, the community plans further expansion, having secured $3.5 million in federal funding for six more modular homes, with additional units expected next year. This initiative is seen as a vital step for improving housing stability for younger families in Nahanni Butte.
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