A delegation co-led by Mushkegowuk Council Grand Chief Leo Friday, Deputy Grand Chiefs Natasha Martin and Amos Wesley, and Timmins Mayor Michelle Boileau met recently with Ontario government officials to discuss housing, homelessness, and the unique challenges facing communities across Northern Ontario.

The opportunity to meet with Associate Minister Graydon Smith and ministry staff from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing took place during the Association of Municipalities of Ontario Conference held in Ottawa last week.

Following Mushkegowuk Council’s Declaration of a State of Emergency on homelessness, addictions, and mental health, this delegation emphasized the need for continued provincial investment in supportive housing development, including tabling a number of shovel-ready supportive housing projects across the Cochrane District.

These projects and the broader work of the Indigenous-led coalition aim to make a meaningful impact on addressing and preventing homelessness across the region.

The delegates from Mushkegowuk Council expressed their appreciation to Associate Minister Smith and ministry staff for their time, engagement and insights, and look forward to working collaboratively with the Province of Ontario and regional partners to advance meaningful housing and homelessness solutions across the region.