Bruce Power is committing $1 million over four years to support new housing development in Saugeen First Nation, a contribution that is helping more families access safe and stable homes. The investment will result in four new houses for community members, with the first nearly ready for occupancy after significant collaboration from volunteers and local partners.
“I am so pleased to have this opportunity to give myself and my son the ability to grow our roots in the community that we love so much,” said Christal Ouimette, Saugeen First Nation community member and home recipient. “Seeing this all come together and being a part of this is more than a dream come true, and for that I am eternally grateful.”
Habitat for Humanity Grey Bruce notes that affordable housing remains out of reach for many, with wait times stretching up to four-and-a-half years. With a majority of Ontarians concerned about meeting essential needs while managing rising housing costs, the Habitat model aims to provide stable, long-term affordability for families.
“Bruce Power is proud to partner with the Saugeen First Nation to make this important $1-million investment in housing for the community,” said James Scongack, Bruce Power’s Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice-President. “I want to congratulate the chief, council and the entire administrative team here for all of the work they do on housing.”
Community leaders say the partnership is helping address pressing needs within Saugeen First Nation.
“Saugeen is always in need of more housing here in the community and with all of the social issues, it's a big contributing factor in helping with the health and wellness in our community so that our families have a place to call home," said Chief Conrad Ritchie of the Saugeen First Nation.
Habitat for Humanity Grey Bruce continues to play a key role in expanding housing across the region.
“Since 2018, we’ve been building homes for Nawash and Saugeen First Nations,” said Greg Fryer, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity Grey Bruce. “Over those years, we’ve engaged over 3,200 volunteers, who have given 55,000 hours of service with our team and over that time, we have built 37 homes and repaired nearly 200 existing homes.”
The ongoing partnership aims to strengthen the community by increasing access to secure housing and supporting long-term well-being for local families.
