Twenty-four new accessible housing units will benefit elders and citizens of the Tla’amin Nation.
The housing called ƛaχƛaχay ʔaye (Klah Klah Hay Ayeh) or Elder’s House fulfils a 30-year vision of Tla’amin elders, according to Hegus John Hackett. It features eight two-bedroom units and 16 one-bedroom units.
The Nation says it provides safe, affordable and accessible housing for elders and citizens with disabilities who can still live independently. They add a few are fitted with lifts and lowered counters for residents who use wheelchairs full time.
The complex is also next to the Tla’amin Health Center. They say this allows for more efficient coordination of vital primary care, dental and home care services.
Nearly $9 million in funding was provided by the federal government through its rapid housing initiative and Tla’amin contributed $2.2 million.
Tla’amin Nation health director Marlene Paul says the housing will allow residents to remain independent for as long as possible, while fulfilling desires to stay within their community and connection to language, culture, ceremonies and one another.
ƛaχƛaχay ʔaye supports their plan to enhance the viability and sustainability of the Nation’s housing stock. They add the buildings meet green energy standards, and a totem pole welcomes visitors at the building’s entrance.
“Tla’amin Nation and the whole of qathet are facing a dire shortage of suitable and accessible housing,” said executive council member Losa Luaifoa.
“This project will have a generational and positive impact for our people. We thank our project partners Luma Housing, Converge Construction, and Urban Arts Architecture for delivering the much-needed housing on-time and on budget.”
The first tenants are set to move in this week.
