The Power of Unity, The Dignity of Difference
Housing
Matawa Housing works to enhance the quality of life for Matawa members by creating opportunities for safe, secure, adequate, and affordable housing. The program provides advocacy services and liaises with external organizations and federal and provincial governments to support community housing needs and development.
The Matawa Chiefs Council directed Matawa First Nations Management (MFNM) to develop a Homelessness Strategy that includes a long-term vision to support all Matawa members in securing safe and sustainable housing.
As of Fall 2024, several key initiatives are underway to expand housing options and address homelessness across Matawa communities:
Key Outcomes and Initiatives
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6 Awashishewiigiihiwaywiin Transitional Housing Units
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2 Tiny Homes delivered to First Nations in Matawa
Developed in partnership with: Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, Lakehead Social Planning Council, Lakehead Public Schools (Hammarskjold and Nip-Rock High Schools Indigenous Skilled Trades Program), Thunder Bay Poverty Reduction Strategy, Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre, District of Thunder Bay Social Services Administration Board, Smart Modular Canada, Form Architecture Engineering, and the Tiny Town Association
Also exploring: feasibility of a Tiny Home Village Pilot Project -
6 Youth Crisis Beds at the Matawa Education and Care Centre
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Subsidized 21-Unit Supportive Housing
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For-Profit Housing Entity (in development)
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Women’s Shelter Initiative (in development)
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First Home Funding Initiative (in development)
Matawa Housing operates 21 supportive housing units in Thunder Bay for Matawa members with urgent housing needs who are working toward independence. The program provides short-term housing with 24-hour staff support, helping participants build stability, life skills, and connections to training or education.
Each unit includes a bed, desk, fridge, and closet. Priority is given to Matawa community members who are 18 or older, on the Rent-Geared-to-Income waitlist, and receiving Ontario Works or ODSP.
To apply, download or complete the fillable form here.
For more information, call (807) 346-1373 or email supportivehousing@matawa.on.ca.
Located at the Matawa Training and Wellness Centre, 523 Algoma St. N., Thunder Bay.
Please note: Walk-ins are not accepted in this secure building.