New Indigenous Housing in Calgary

October 2, 2023: Calgary’s new 12-unit Elders’ Lodge will support Indigenous Elders and seniors in need of affordable housing.

Indigenous-led housing is built for Indigenous Peoples by Indigenous Peoples and provides a place for residents to connect with their culture. $5.7 million has been given to the Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary to open Calgary’s first urban Indigenous seniors housing facility.

“Supporting Indigenous-led housing projects is a key action under Alberta’s Stronger Foundations affordable housing strategy. The Elders’ Lodge is a great example of how collaboration and local expertise can help ensure we meet the culturally appropriate housing needs of Indigenous Peoples.”

Jason Nixon, Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services

The Elders’ Lodge will feature cultural spaces for residents to connect with their culture through ceremonies and teachings. Residents will begin moving in this month. Through the Indigenous Housing Capital Program, Alberta’s government has committed $57.4 million for 20 projects totalling 378 units.

"By providing not only safe and affordable places to live but also a variety of cultural activities and supports, the Elders’ Lodge promises to be yet another shining example of the effectiveness of Indigenous-led solutions. Alberta will continue to support solutions that are shaped by Indigenous communities because we understand that Indigenous cultures and values must shine through in order for our joint efforts to be successful."

Rick Wilson, Minister of Indigenous Relations

The governments of Alberta and Canada jointly provided $2.3 million to this project under the National Housing Strategy bilateral agreement.

“This incredible and much overdue new facility will feature 12 units of affordable housing for Elders and provide cultural gathering spaces for residents to practise land-based teachings, hold ceremonies, and promote healing. This will not just be a building but a safe space for Indigenous seniors who are vulnerable or at-risk.”

Shane Gauthier, CEO, Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary

READ MORE HERE