Bringing Our Children Home Longhouse
15 new homes for Indigenous women and children. a 6-bed group home for children in care, and 6 independent living units for youth aging out of care.
Gitxsan Child & Family Services Society (GCFSS) identified a significant need for housing for children in care, youth aging out of care, and single parents fleeing violence with their children. The Bringing Our Children Home Longhouse provides affordable housing for some of Gitxsan's most vulnerable people and incorporates a strong support program for youth transitioning into adulthood by offering life skills training, cultural support, education, employment, safety, and oversight.
The unique building design is based on a traditional longhouse and brings together townhouse units, a group home and independent living units. It features 15 units with 3 three-bedroom townhomes to accommodate women and children, a 6-bed group home for children in care, and 6 independent living units for youth aging out of care. Each of the separate projects have their own entrance and address, but coexist under one shared roof.
Lu’ma Development Management (LDM) provided development management and construction claims management for the project. Prior to starting construction, LDM helped coordinate a ground-blessing and ground-breaking ceremony.
LAND
Sik-E-Dakh (Glen Vowell Band), located on the Skeena River near what is now known as Hazelton, BC
Prior to developing the site, LDM supported the Nation to complete the required land designation with Indigenous Services Canada.
PEOPLE
TARGET POPULATION: Designed for children in care, youth aging out of care, and single parents fleeing violence with their children.
CLIENT + OPERATOR: Gitxsan Child and Family Services Society
BUILDING
UNITS: 15 new townhomes, a 6-bed group home, and 6 independent living units
STATUS: Completed in 2023
CULTURAL EXPRESSION: The unique building design is based on a traditional longhouse.
FUNDING
LDM supported the Society to secure funding.
FUNDERS: Glen Vowell Nation, BC Housing’s Indigenous Housing Fund, and CMHC’s National Housing Co-Investment Fund (now known as the Affordable Housing Fund).