The Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations says it has received word there will be less government money for on-reserve housing this year.
According to the FSIN — Saskatchewan’s budget allocation from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation has been cut to $18.7 million, down 30% from last year.
That number is expected to remain the same in 2013-2014 — something the FSIN says will impact the standard of living for communities that are already below the poverty line.
The federation says 159 living units were committed through the CMHC program last year.
However, this year, just 88 units are expected to be built — a drop of 45%.
According to the FSIN, there is a shortage of 11,000 homes on reserves across Saskatchewan.
Reserves within the Prince Albert Grand Council has an occupancy rate double the national average.
It also says 14 First Nations received commitments, but just 27 were eligible out of 74.