Innovative housing program helps newcomers find a home

The ongoing challenges that face many Aboriginal people who move to the city for work or school were the impetus behind the creation of a new housing initiative by the Boyle Street Community Services in Edmonton.

 “The Aboriginal community coming to Boyle Street co-op typically moved to Edmonton for work or school,” said Yasir Syed, housing support worker. “They lacked support for that transition and often ended up homeless. If we support those people, it would help that community succeed.”

With the support of the provincial and federal governments, as well as various band organizations, Boyle Street launched a housing project in summer 2010 for Aboriginal individuals moving to the city for work or school.

Two five-bedroom, fully furnished, houses are available for rent at a rate of $750 per month per participant. The houses are modern, centrally located and easily accessible to public transportation. Residents must provide a $200 damage deposit.  The houses are dry environments.

Aside from the opportunity to live in safe and affordable housing, the program also offers other forms of support to make the transition to living in the city easier. Support workers are assigned to each house and able to help residents learn how to use public transportation and how to access services like schools, daycares and recreational facilities. The workers are also able to help students with accessing tutors and talk about challenges like making friends.

Another important service the program offers to participants is cultural connectivity. Support workers inform participants about cultural activities and events such as round dances and social nights. The program also has access to Elders from various communities throughout Alberta.

At present, some of the housing units are occupied but there are still several spaces available. Current residents are participating in the Trade Winds labour program and attending MacEwan University.

The project is still in the pilot phase but Syed is optimistic about the future of the program and its success.

“We are learning and figuring out how to offer the proper supports that people require,” he said, “The second part is extending support to First Nations and Métis settlements that have housing in the city. We want to offer support to people in that housing so they aren’t isolated from the community.”

In August 2011, organizers will look at continuing the project and approaching funders for financial support.
“Our hope is to provide a safe and nurturing environment for those individuals transitioning into city life,” he said.