Métis Nation British Columbia Acquires Land in Terrace for Housing, Early-Years Programming, and Space for the Northwest BC Métis Association

Press Release

Terrace, BC (January 27, 2022) – Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC) is proud to announce the acquisition of land in Terrace which will see the construction of below-market rate rental housing for Métis families, office space for Northwest BC Métis Association, and Métis early years programs and services for Métis children and families that support the needs of the community. The purchase, totaling $850,000 is part of MNBC’s ambitious goal of creating Métis centres across the province in all seven regions. The funding, provided under the Canada-Métis Nation Housing Sub-Accord, gives the governing members of the Métis Nation control over the design, delivery and administration of housing and early years programs. The federal government’s 2018 budget outlined a $500 million investment over 10 years to support the Métis Nation’s housing strategy. The land is located within the traditional unceded territories of the Kitselas and Kitsumkalum peoples.

“I am excited to see this project advance at the next stage and am excited Terrace will be the home of one of our Métis Centres,” says Susie Hooper, MNBC Director for Region 6 (Northwest). “Our Cabinet remains committed to identifying projects in each region and will continue advancing our ambitious goal of bringing affordable housing and Métis early years programming to every region in the province.”

“The Northwest BC Métis Association is excited to work with MNBC on bringing much needed affordable housing to Region 6,” says Darcie Petuh, President of the Northwest BC Métis Association. “We look forward to working collaboratively on bringing this vision to fruition and housing the first Métis centre in Region 6 in Terrace.”

Through a competitive Request for Proposals (RFP) process, MNBC will engage a qualified development consultant to lead the development of this project. Providing affordable housing, delivering Métis early years programs, and creating space for our Métis Chartered Communities is a key strategic goal of MNBC’s Cabinet and senior leadership team. Over the coming months, MNBC will continue on its progressive agenda with more announcements to come.

“Investing in quality, affordable housing is going to provide a lasting legacy for MNBC and help build a sense of belonging in our regions and Métis Chartered Communities,” says Lissa Dawn Smith, MNBC President and Minister of House & Homelessness. “Working with our grassroots Métis citizens we will continue pursuing these life-changing projects to improve the lives of our people.”

This purchase builds on previously announced land acquisitions in Surrey, Saanich, Campbell River, Fort St. John, and Kamloops. MNBC is continuing work in other regions to identify land for purchase and will keep MNBC Citizens appraised of developments in each project.

“Building a network of Métis early learning and childcare programs is a pivotal moment in our Nation’s history. Ensuring that Métis children can attend early year programs at facilities that are culturally relevant and exposes them to the rich heritage we hold so near to our heart will have a long-lasting, positive effect on their lives. A dream come true.” – Debra Fisher, MNBC Minister of Education

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