Funding was secured from Indigenous Services Canada to host regional meetings in 2018 and 2019 to explore the concept of HRS and gather input on its roles and structure. The major resource service and approach recommendations from these sessions were:

  • Localized, relevant services for participating First Nations Communities
  • 1-1 and on-line access to housing related expertise
  • Networking, sharing and a platform for collaboration throughout the First Nations communities
  • Leverage of resources and socio-economic benefits
  • Accountable to First Nation communities
  • Development of an Advisory Steering Committee made up of representative communities
  • Flexible to adjust services to the needs of clients

 In March 2020, Upper Nicola Band and First Nations within the Nlaka’pamux, and Secwépemc Nations met and prioritized the goals for HRS, which are:

  • Address training and capacity-building needs of housing staff and leadership
  • Creation of a service delivery model which will address and manage housing related goals
  • Enhanced ability to manage projects and project cash flow
  • Improvement in construction of quality housing on reserve
  • Increased accessibility of training and resources regardless of the size and location of the First Nations
  • Risk management practices which ensure appropriate insurance is in place and safety standards are met
  • Comprehensive policies and procedures for management of housing on reserve which are understood and supported by leadership and community members
  • Improved accessibility of capital for financing new construction and renovations
  • Greater insight into leveraging financial equity, loans and funding programs
  • Simplified guide to funding for housing which allows for a more coordinated and fairer approach to accessing resources
  • Enhanced ability to manage agreements with funding agencies, and to undertake community and/or infrastructure planning

 In August 2020, the HRS held their first Steering Committee Meeting and approved their terms of reference in November 2020.   The Committee held a Strategic Planning in September 2020 where they developed strategic goals. objectives and work plan to guide their future work.

 In April 2021, two additional Committee Members were added to the HRS Steering Committee so that it would have a full complement of 8 members.