Developing a SAACA housing model for Indigenous communities across Canada

Creating a housing model for Indigenous communities is imperative. This need is underscored by the housing crisis experienced within Indigenous communities in Canada. The crisis presents numerous challenges, including violence, poor physical and mental health, homelessness and hidden homelessness. These challenges disproportionately impact Indigenous women, girls, Two-Spirit, transgender, and gender-diverse+ (WG2STGD+) individuals.

To address these pressing issues, the Native Women’s Association of Canada led a research project focused on developing a housing model tailored to meet the specific needs of Indigenous WG2STGD+ individuals in Canada.

The project’s goal was to create a housing solution that is not only sustainable, affordable and accessible, but also culturally appropriate, known as SAACA.

This research included:

• conducting a literature review aimed at understanding challenges faced by Indigenous communities in obtaining, building and maintaining suitable housing in urban and rural areas, reserves and remote regions throughout Canada
• performing a cross-jurisdictional analysis to evaluate regional housing programs and identify best practices for housing solutions serving Indigenous WG2STGD+ people
• running a national online survey to gather insights and suggestions from WG2STGD+ peoples regarding SAACA housing

The Association developed a preliminary design for a SAACA housing model in collaboration with architects. This design incorporates key features and metrics identified through the literature review, cross-jurisdictional analysis and national online survey.

The resulting report offers a perspective on the housing needs of Indigenous WG2STGD+ peoples. It addresses needs that are often overlooked in current housing design and construction.

Download this Research Insight to learn more about sustainable, affordable, accessible and culturally appropriate housing model for Indigenous women, girls, two-spirit, transgender and gender-diverse+ people.

Download the Report (PDF)