Meridian contributes $100k to Habitat tiny homes program
Meridian has thrown its support behind an initiative to support a tiny homes program being run by Habitat for Humanity Halton-Mississauga-Dufferin.
The Ontario credit union announced it would contribute $100,000 to a pilot program in which employees would work alongside skilled trades students and Indigenous communities to build and establish affordable housing options.
“The Tiny Homes Pilot Program is an exciting and unique initiative helping to accelerate economic reconciliation and youth community activism and aligns with Meridian’s interest in supporting community-based affordable housing solutions,” said Meridian President and CEO Jay-Ann Gilfoy. “Our corporate partnership with Habitat is the outcome of an imaginative combination which brought together Meridian volunteers, Indigenous community members and students.”
The first phase of the pilot program began in the summer 2022 with five tiny homes built. The homes were relocated to the Chippewas of the Nawash First Nation, three to families and two to serve as emergency shelters.
“We are providing hands-on training for students in the housing and construction trades,” says Chief Veronica Smith, Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nations. “We appreciate the dedication and skills coming to our First Nation; building lasting relationships and sharing in cultural exchanges at the same time."
With Meridian’s funding support of phase two, the Habitat HMD team has committed to undertaking six tiny home builds (up to 230 sq. ft.) in the 2022-23 school year.
“At Habitat for Humanity, we are working to make affordable housing a reality for more people, but we can’t do it alone. With the help of organizations like Meridian, we can make a difference,” says Eden Grodzinksi, CEO, Habitat for Humanity Halton-Mississauga-Dufferin.
Each of the phase two homes will be constructed by local secondary school students in partnership with two additional First Nations communities, The Chippewas of Kettle Stony Point and The Saugeen First Nations.
“This Tiny Home Program is forecasted to be a major pillar of the skilled trades and social impact programs across secondary schools in the coming years,” said Grodzinksi. “Not only are we increasing the number of people who will have a safe, decent and affordable place to call home, but by partnering with our local school boards, we are also able to empower students to take action in their communities.”