M'akola RNH Housing Society

The Society was originally established to provide safe, affordable housing for families of First Nations ancestry who were in core need of housing in urban centres on Vancouver Island. Since that time the Society and its mandate have expanded into what is now the M’akola Group of Societies.

The Rural and Native Housing Program, started in 1974 as the Rural and Remote Program. It was created under Section 40 of the National Housing Act for homeowners, through the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). The Province of BC provided $1,000 as a grant for equity. In 1985 it changed to a unilateral program wholly subsidized by the federal government. Sweat equity was allowed for clients who could not afford a cash down payment.

Tenure options included lease to purchase and rental. In 1992 CMHC eliminated the ownership option and the program became solely a rental program. Delivery of additional units ceased at this time.

The intent of the program is to provide families with safe, affordable housing. Frequently rents are unaffordable, units were overcrowded and conditions were substandard. Security of tenure is an important aspect of this program.

The Vancouver Island portfolio consists of 75 rental units and 24 homeowner accounts. House sizes vary from two bedrooms to five bedrooms and are single-family dwellings. This housing serves families in the greatest need, thus serving both Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal families, majority being Aboriginal. Rents are based on Ministry shelter less utility allowances, or 25% of gross household income, less heating and hot water allowances.

They are located in the rural areas or in the case of villages with a population of 2500 or less. The housing is now divided into regions, each have a Regional Property Manger as follows:

RNH has expanded homes within the boundaries of Courtenay, Campbell River and Port Alberni.