MCK approves social housing initiative meeting neighborhood residents

11/27/2012

The Mohawk Council of Kahnaw�:ke announced today that it has agreed to pursue the refurbishment of the former Environment Office as a social housing facility.

The facility will be used to temporarily house single community members who find themselves in a difficult position due to a shortage of suitable housing.

�We have a responsibility to ensure that people have a place to stay, especially during the cold winter months,� said Chief Martin Leborgne, who has been a strong advocate for such a facility. �If all goes well, the facility will be ready within a couple of weeks.�

The MCK Social Development Unit has been working diligently to ensure that suitable criteria are created in order to meet the needs of both potential clients and the surrounding neighborhood. A meeting is scheduled between neighbors and the MCK to answer questions and address concerns.

�This isn�t a half-way house or anything like that,� continued Chief Leborgne. �It is simply something that will help community members who are in a tough situation to have a solid roof over their heads. We�ve been acting in a discreet manner on this project in order to respect people�s dignity but, unfortunately, certain people have already created a situation that stigmatizes potential residents. Regardless, we�ll still do everything in our power to assist those who need a helping hand.�