Welcome to the latest edition of our newsletter, designed to keep you informed about the recent developments, initiatives, and success stories within the First Nations Market Housing Fund (FNMHF).
We are excited to share updates on how we are working together to improve housing opportunities for First Nations communities across the nation. Let’s dive into the highlights of this quarter:
Dear Valued Members and Stakeholders, I’m thrilled to share the latest updates from the First Nations Market Housing Fund (FNMHF). As we continue to strengthen our efforts to support First Nations housing and community development, the past few months have been both eventful and inspiring. In July, we had the privilege of attending the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Annual General Assembly (AGA) in Montreal, held on the traditional territory of the Kanien’kehá Nation. This gathering brought together leaders and partners from across the country, offering a meaningful opportunity to strengthen our relationships. Events like the AGA are invaluable, as they allow us to connect directly with communities, engage in meaningful dialogue, and showcase our ongoing initiatives. [READ MORE HERE]
AFN AGA in Montreal
Held on the traditional territory of the Kanien’kehá Nation in Montreal, the AGA brought together leaders and partners to
strengthen our relations. Our Chair Michael Rice, Chief Jennifer Constant of Mattagami First Nation, and CEO Travis Seymour enjoyed a meaningful chat at the Fund’s booth.
We’re grateful for events like these that unite us and allow our team at FNMHF to engage in meaningful dialogues and showcase our initiatives.
MOU Signing with FMB
In a significant step towards enhancing support for First Nations communities, the First Nations Market Housing Fund (FNMHF) and the First Nations Financial Management Board (FMB) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding. The signing ceremony was attended by Michael Rice, Chair of the Fund, and Harold Calla, Executive Chair of the FMB.
This agreement establishes a framework for the two organizations to work together, fostering the sharing of information and encouraging joint efforts to improve the wellbeing of First Nations communities. Read the full press release here.
Staff Summer Gathering in Akwesasne
On August 14, the team at the First Nations Market Housing Fund came together in Akwesasne for their annual Summer Staff Gathering.
Staff and their families enjoyed a scenic boat ride along the St. Lawrence River, engaging in games, a barbecue, and plenty of laughter. The gathering provided a valuable opportunity for everyone to connect, get to know each other better, and strengthen the bonds that support the Fund’s continued success. We are looking forward to our next staff gathering!
MOU Signing with Lands Advisory Board
On August 24, in Halifax, Chief Robert Louie, Chairman of the Lands Advisory Board (LAB), and Michael L. Rice, Chair of the Fund, signed a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) during the LAB’s Annual General Meeting. The MOU aims to create a framework for cooperation and collaboration between the two organizations, which both have working relationships with 114 First Nations across Canada. Read the full press release here.
Two other MOUs have been drafted and approved by the Board of Trustees to work with more organizations – stay tuned for more details!
We are gathering views on a new membership model being proposed for the Fund, feedback on the transfer of care and control of the Fund to First Nations, as well as potential new products and services. The format will be similar to that of a focus group, led by a facilitator.
- Click here to register to the webinar version via Zoom on October 1
- Click here to register to the in-person version in Halifax on November 6
Engagement Session participants who register for this session will receive a $50 electronic gift card as an honorarium for their participation. We are looking forward to hearing from you!
Mould Prevention – Identify, prevent and clean up mould in your home
Mould is a common issue that can affect your home. When excess moisture accumulates indoors, mould can grow.
It is crucial to learn to identify, prevent and clean it up safely to keep your living space free from mould. Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) has developed resources to help First Nations organizations, communities and individuals to:
- Understand how mould develops
- Identify mould in your home
- Safely remove and clean up mould
- Protect your home from mould after a flood
This fall, the Fund will be attending the following conferences:
- FNNBOA’s Gathering on Housing Technical Knowledge
- Forward Summit East
- FNTAA Annual Conference and Tulo Centre Alumni Event
- AFOA Manitoba’s 10th Annual Leadership & Administrators Conference
- CANDO 30th Annual National Conference & AGM
- Forward Summit West Coast
- BCAFN-FNHIC First Nations Housing and Homelessness Forum
- AFOA Atlantic Leadership and Governance Conference
- AFOA Atlantic Annual Conference
- FNHPA 3rd Annual National Conference
- FMB Leading the Way
- AFN SCA
Keep an eye on our events page to see where we will be headed next!
Enhancing our services en français
In efforts to better serve our clients nationwide, FNMHF staff has been enrolled in French lessons. Gathering online every Thursday, staff will work on improving their French communication skills to ensure that our clients and partners are served in the official language of their choice. Très bien!
Welcoming New Staff
We are thrilled to welcome Melinda Martin, LL.B, to our team as a Senior Program Officer for Quebec.
With over two decades of experience as a policy analyst and project manager, Melinda has made significant contributions
to First Nations communities. She brings a wealth of expertise in governance, economic development, and social policy, particularly in housing initiatives.
Melinda’s deep commitment to advancing First Nations interests and her impressive background—including her work with the Cree Nation Government, Cree Board of Health, and Assembly of First Nations—make her an invaluable addition to our team. We look forward to the impact she will undoubtedly have on our initiatives.
We’ve moved!
The Fund’s Ottawa satellite office, previously located at 1420 Blair Towers Place, has moved to 2460 Lancaster Road. Although the new space is smaller, it represents a substantial savings in rental costs. Our head office remains in Akwesasne.
Please note that the Fund will be closed on the following dates:
- November 11, Remembrance Day
- September 30, National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
- October 14, Thanksgiving
We hope this newsletter keeps you informed, inspired, and engaged with the ongoing work of the Fund. Your support and commitment are instrumental in creating sustainable housing solutions for First Nations communities.
Should you have any questions, feedback, or exciting partnership opportunities you’d like to explore, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to listen and collaborate, and you can contact our team at info@fnmhf.ca.
Stay in the loop and never miss a beat by connecting with us on social media. Follow us on social media (links below) for real-time updates, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and thought-provoking content that sparks meaningful conversations within our community.
If you’re enjoying the insights and stories we share in this newsletter, why not share the wealth? Invite your friends and colleagues to join our community by subscribing to the newsletter. Together, we can create an even richer exchange of ideas and experiences.
Copyright (C) 2024 First Nations Market Housing Fund. All rights reserved.