The federal government has announced it plans to build and repair 4257 affordable homes in Alberta, some of which will be on O’Chiese First Nation.

The $172 million investment was announced July 23 in Edmonton by MP Randy Boissonnault, minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages, and will see the homes built through contributions and low-cost loans through the Affordable Housing Fund (AFH).

Of the total investment, $300,000 will be directed to the O’Chiese First Nation, constituting repairs for around 20 affordable units.

A spokesperson with Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) says the funding was provided specifically for repairs to affordable housing for the First Nation through the AHF.

The AHF (formerly called the National Housing Co-Investment Fund) provides capital to partnered organizations for new affordable housing and the renovation and repair of existing affordable and community housing.

Officials say funds are provided as low-interest or forgivable loans and contributions. The AHF also prioritizes funding for Indigenous applications through the Indigenous and Northern Communities option.

“We need smart solutions to solve the affordable housing crisis. Through the Affordable Housing Fund, we are building and repairing over 4000 homes in Alberta,” says Boissonnault. “By working with our communities, we are investing $172 million to support those who need social and affordable housing the most.”

Through the 2023 Fall Economic Statement, the government announced an additional $1 billion for the Affordable Housing Fund, bringing the total funding to over $14 billion.

To further support non-profit, co-operative, and public housing providers and respond to the needs of those most impacted by the housing crisis, government officials say Budget 2024 committed an additional $1 billion to the fund.

Government officials say the National Housing Strategy (NHS) gives priority to projects that help people who need it most, including women and children fleeing family violence, seniors, Indigenous peoples, people living with disabilities, those with mental health or addiction issues, veterans, and young adults.

“Everyone deserves a place to call their own and the Affordable Housing Fund is one way we’re helping make that a reality for Canadians,” says Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities. “We will keep investing in affordable housing projects like the ones announced today, and working with partners across the country, to end the housing crisis.”

As of March 2024, federal government officials say it has committed $50.97 billion through the NHS to support the creation of over 146,000 units and the repair of over 286,000 units.