The Government of Canada and the Government of British Columbia have allocated $9.6 million to construct new homes and provide support for Indigenous women and children leaving violence in Sik-e-Dakh Village. This funding will also benefit children in care and young adults transitioning out of care.
The funding will be used to build a 15-unit wood-frame longhouse known as the GCFSS Longhouse, which is owned and operated by the Gitxsan Child and Family Services Society. The longhouse consists of three separate projects under one roof, with each project having its own entrance and address.
The first project includes three three-bedroom townhouse units that will serve as a safe haven for women and children fleeing violence. The second project is a six-bed group home designed to accommodate children in care. Lastly, there are six independent living units following a youth mentorship model for young adults aged 18 to 26. These young adults will have access to a support program that offers life skills, cultural support, education, employment guidance, safety, and oversight.
The GCFSS Longhouse aims to provide culturally relevant care and services to its residents. It is part of the Bringing Our Children Home project, which is committed to offering Indigenous-led approaches and creating a safe and empowering environment for all.
Construction of the GCFSS Longhouse has been completed, and residents have already moved into their new homes. This project signifies an important milestone in the government’s commitment to delivering housing that is rooted in the cultures, values, and traditions of First Nations. By partnering with the Gitxsan Child and Family Services Society, the government has successfully developed an innovative model of housing that allows children and youth to live close to their family, community, and culture.
Government representatives have expressed their pride in supporting the construction of the GCFSS Longhouse. They emphasize the importance of providing a safe and affordable place for individuals to rebuild their lives and achieve personal growth and independence. The project aligns with the National Housing Strategy’s objective of ensuring that no one is left behind.
The funding provided by the government demonstrates their commitment to Indigenous communities and their dedication to creating long-lasting solutions that uplift and empower those in need. This project is the first of its kind in Canada and sets a precedent for future initiatives aimed at strengthening families and providing safe options for children transitioning out of the provincial care system.
Sheridan Martin, the Longhouse Program Manager at the Gitxsan Child and Family Services Society, expressed excitement about the completion of the GCFSS Longhouse and the future prospect of having a longhouse in every community.
The funding received for this project will undoubtedly make a significant difference in the lives of Indigenous women, children, and young adults, providing them with a supportive and culturally sensitive environment where they can thrive and rebuild their lives.
