To celebrate the construction of four houses in Saugeen First Nation, Habitat for Humanity Grey-Bruce and First Nation Chief Lester Anoquot launched a virtual Ground Breaking Ceremony.
According to a release, upon signing a memorandum of understanding last fall, Saugeen First Nation and Habitat for Humanity Grey Bruce entered a partnership that would see the organization construct energy-efficient and affordable houses for band member families on the Saugeen territory.
The construction will consist of two, three bedroom houses and two, four bedroom houses while using community volunteers and local contractors.
According to the release, the families who will live in these new homes will be selected by the Chief and council, but they will be required to contribute 500 volunteer hours in building their houses.
For assistance in budgeting, estate planning and home maintenance, Habitat will be providing homeowner education sessions.
Executive Director at Habitat for Humanity Grey Bruce, Greg Fryer says, “we are pleased to be partnering with Saugeen First nation to build safe, affordable and energy efficient homes for band member families this year and for many years to come. Our build is also providing employment for several members of the community and skills training for youth.”
Due to the the pandemic however, only volunteers from the Saugeen First Nation community will be allowed to help with the construction, which is expected to take up to five months, with the goal to have families move in by Mid-October.
Saugeen First Nation Chief Lester Anoquot says, “I would like to commend the housing department for their had work in developing a partnership with Habitat for Humanity. This construction opportunity will help address our housing shortage and provide home ownership through the rent to own program. Miigwetch.”
The video of the virtual Ground breaking ceremony can be viewed on YouTube and features the four selected families.
