FNMHF
Vision Statement
Every First Nation family has the opportunity to have a home on their own land in a strong community.
More Choice for First Nations in Saskatchewan
OTTAWA, December 15, 2010 — John Beaucage, Chair of the First Nations Market Housing Fund (the Fund) announced today that Affinity Credit Union has been approved to offer housing loans to First Nations in Saskatchewan.
Affinity will work with the Fund to offer housing loans to First Nation members in Saskatchewan using the Fund’s Credit Enhancement Facility. Affinity will serve First Nations across Saskatchewan using its network of specialists located across the province.
“This announcement demonstrates that the Fund’s value in facilitating lending in First Nation communities is recognized by lenders and that they want the opportunity to work with us,” said Mr. Beaucage. “First Nation people in Saskatchewan now have another option for financing their on-reserve housing needs, backed by the Fund. The Fund is pleased to add Affinity to our growing list of participating lenders.”
“Affinity Credit Union is steeped in co-operative values and has a strong history of working collaboratively and co-operatively with First Nations communities to support their economic development,” said Mark Lane, Chief Operations Officer, at Affinity Credit Union. “Our partnership with the First Nations Market Housing Fund is a significant step forward in our commitment to helping make good housing a reality for First Nation communities.”
The Fund is an innovative initiative established by the Government of Canada through Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation to give First Nation members greater access to housing loans on reserve and on settlement lands, where appropriate. The $300 million fund became operational in May 2008.
Several First Nations have been approved for Credit Enhancement including some in Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, Saskatchewan, Ontario, and British Columbia.
Affinity Credit Union joins BMO Bank of Montreal and Peace Hills Trust as participating lenders serving First Nations in Saskatchewan.
For more information, please visit the Fund’s website at www.fnmhf.ca.
Media Contacts:
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Deborah Taylor |
Tina Merrifield |
Backgrounder
Affinity Credit Union
Affinity Credit Union has evolved over 80 years, the product of numerous credit union partnerships and mergers, and is now the second largest credit union in Saskatchewan. Affinity offers access to a complete range of accounts and services including insurance, and wealth management products through a network of 44 branches in 36 communities across Saskatchewan. Members can also access services through telephone banking, online banking and a Saskatoon-based call centre.
Affinity is a member-owned and operated financial institution. It is dynamic, progressive and socially responsible, and is committed to creating great opportunities for its members, employees, and communities. As a locally-owned financial cooperative, Affinity takes pride in making a difference in people’s lives and values the cultural diversity of its members.
Affinity's financial support provides funding to community projects in the areas of health, youth, community building, education, environment, affordable housing, arts and culture. Affinity also recognizes the changing and diverse needs of the community and supports community initiatives that are founded on cultural connections and partnerships.
Affinity provides improved access to financial services to support First Nation individuals, families, new businesses and economic growth through our First Nations District.