Construction is well underway on the Kikinow Elders Lodge in Victor Lake, which is nestled in nature with mountain views. This one-of-a-kind 12-unit lodge will provide aging Indigenous Elders with an affordable, supportive and culturally appropriate place to call home.
To celebrate this progress, Alberta’s government officials are joining project partners, the Victor Lake Co-operative and The Evergreens Foundation, for a topping blessing ceremony. The event will mark the placement of the teepee’s peak, which represents the highest point on the building.
Through the Indigenous Housing Capital Program, Alberta’s government has invested more than $2 million to support this project. By collaborating with Indigenous communities, the province is supporting the development, delivery and ownership of more affordable homes built by Indigenous communities for Indigenous peoples in need.
“I am pleased to see the progress being made on the Kikinow Elders Lodge. Soon, aging Indigenous Elders in the MD of Greenview will have access to these affordable and culturally supportive lodge spaces in the community they call home. Strategic investments in projects like these are helping us meet the diverse housing needs of Indigenous people, now and in the future.”
“Housing for Indigenous seniors means they can stay in their community. Today’s good news at Kikinow Elders lodge at Victor Lake is one example of what our National Housing Strategy does – it works with provincial partners and local organizations to ensure everyone has access to safe, affordable housing.”
By strengthening cultural connections and empowering local partners, Alberta’s government is ensuring that Indigenous communities across the province have the necessary resources needed to meet the unique housing needs of their communities.
“We are committed to ensuring Indigenous Elders have safe, affordable and accessible housing, while remaining connected to their communities and cultural roots. I’m so excited to see this project take shape. These units at the Kikinow Elders lodge, funded through the Indigenous Housing Capital Program, are another great example of effective Indigenous-led solutions.”
“The Victor Lake region is known for having a rich Indigenous heritage, and Indigenous Elders carry on this legacy. Through the Kikinow Elders Lodge project, we are ensuring aging Elders have an affordable housing option that serves their social and cultural needs and keeps them connected to their community. I am proud our province is investing in affordable housing projects that make a real difference for Indigenous communities in the West Yellowhead area.”
The Indigenous Housing Capital Program supports Indigenous governments and communities in building affordable off-reserve, off-settlement and on-settlement housing. A grand opening will take place once construction is complete early in 2025.
“This development will be the core of our community and will serve our Elders for generations to come. Our Elders will be supported in a facility that respects our culture and keeps them in the community as long as possible.”
“This project is a unique partnership between a housing management body and an Indigenous organization, funded by varying levels of government. Success stories like these will open doors for more opportunities in housing for Indigenous Elders in Alberta.”
Quick facts
- Victor Lake Co-operative is part of the six Indigenous co-operatives and enterprises in the Grande Cache region, in northwestern Alberta.
- Funding for the Kikinow Elders Lodge project includes:
- $2.3 million through the governments of Alberta and Canada’s bilateral agreement under the National Housing Strategy.
- $2 million from the Municipal District of Greenview.
- Through the Indigenous Housing Capital Program, Alberta’s government has approved $73.5 million for 22 projects totalling 521 units.