MUNCEY, September 15, 2006 The Chippewas of the Thames First Nation marked the start of construction on a seniors' complex with a turning of the sod ceremony today. Funding from the Government of Canada, through Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), helped the community members build the twenty unit apartment building for seniors. CMHC provided a direct loan of $1,260,000 and is also providing an annual subsidy of $150,619 over the life of the loan, under the Section 95 On-Reserve Non-Profit Rental Housing Program. "This project demonstrates the commitment of Canada's new Government to provide housing solutions for seniors so that they can live with dignity and independence," said Mr. Bev Shipley, Member of Parliament for Lambton Kent Middlesex, on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development. The Thames Band has been working with Spriet Associates Engineers & Architects and community stakeholders to design a facility that will meet the housing needs of seniors in their community. The building contains twenty individual two-bedroom units with double-width corridors. Several of the suites will be modified for accessibility; all of the units are, however, designed as mobility units, making all suites accessible for wheelchairs. "This First Nation is firmly committed to ensuring our elders in the community can live a full and independent life, for as long as possible," said Chief Kelly Riley of the Chippewas of the Thames. The Chippewas of The Thames First Nation has a membership of approximately 2,200 and is located about 30 kilometres southwest of London, Ontario. The Section 95 On-Reserve Non-Profit Rental Housing Program assists First Nations in the construction, purchase and rehabilitation, and administration of quality housing for Aboriginal people living on-reserve. CMHC provides approximately $120 million in on-reserve funding each year for new construction and supports some 25,000 units on behalf of the Government of Canada. CMHC is also encouraging more homeownership on-reserve through mortgage loan insurance. Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) has been Canada's national housing agency for over 60 years. CMHC is committed to helping Canadians access a wide choice of quality, affordable homes, while making vibrant, healthy communities and cities a reality across the country. For more information, call 1-800-668-2642. For further information, please contact: Dwayne KechegoEconomic Development Officer Chippewas of the Thames First Nation519-289-5555 Arlene EtchenSenior Communications ConsultantCMHC-SCHL416-209-8345
