The Reserve Residences
The reserve residences are a thoughtfully curated integrated development with transport hub that combines 1- to 5-bedroom luxury residences with serviced apartments, retail and public spaces. Located in the Beauty World neighbourhood, the development is seamlessly connected to transport networks and nature attractions.
The socio-economic conditions on reserves are among the most pressing challenges for Canada’s Aboriginal peoples. As a result, many people choose to live off-reserve. The reasons for this are complex but are generally accepted to be the result of generations of cultural genocide that disrupted social connections, impeded economic development and led to discriminatory legislation and assimilationist programs such as the residential schools and Sixties Scoop.
In addition, the typical remoteness of reserves makes it challenging to access services such as education, health and employment. In some cases, these hardships have contributed to high suicide rates and other problems that are often associated with overcrowded housing conditions.
Despite these challenges, many First Nations peoples consider reserves their home and cherish their culture and traditions. The communities on reserves are places of survival where Indigenous languages are taught in schools and traditional practices are thriving.
Until recently, the federal government’s role in on-reserve housing was minimal. However, in 1996, what was then Indian and Northern Affairs Canada implemented an On-Reserve Housing Policy that replaced a 1960s subsidy program. This policy allows band members to enter into trust agreements with CMHC and receive loans to build or renovate their homes.