Bringing Our Children Home Longhouse
Affordable Housing for Children, Youth and Single Parents
Gitxsan Child & Family Services Society (GCFSS) identified a significant need for housing for children in care, youth aging out of care, and single parents fleeing violence with their children. The Bringing Our Children Home Longhouse provides affordable housing for some of Gitxsan's most vulnerable people and incorporates a strong support program for youth transitioning into adulthood by offering life skills training, cultural support, education, employment, safety and oversight.
The unique building design is based on a traditional longhouse and brings together townhouse units, a group home and independent living units. Each of the separate projects have their own entrance and address, but coexist under one shared roof.
Lu’ma Development Management (LDM) provided development management and construction claims management for the project. Prior to developing the site, LDM supported the Nation to complete the required land designation with Indigenous Services Canada. Prior to starting construction, LDM also helped coordinate a ground-blessing and ground-breaking ceremony.
The development features 15 units with 3 three-bedroom townhomes to accommodate women and children. It also includes a 6-bed group home for children in care and 6 independent living units for youth aging out of care.
LOCATION: Sik-E-Dakh (Glen Vowell Band), located on the Skeena River near Hazelton, BC
STATUS: Completed in 2023
CLIENT: Gitxsan Child and Family Services Society
FUNDER: BC Housing’s Building BC: Indigenous Housing Fund
OPERATOR: Gitxsan Child and Family Services Society