NAN, KDSB, CDSSAB to work together to address homeless, poverty

Tim Brody - Editor

Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) has signed Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with the Kenora District Services Board (KDSB) and the Cochrane District Social Services Administration Board (CDSSAB) to work together to develop approaches to address poverty and homelessness in northern Ontario.
A news release issued on behalf of the three parties states, “The partners will work together to address priority areas to ensure adequate housing for all families and individuals and will explore and pursue joint initiatives that will result in the reduction of poverty and homelessness while improving health outcomes for the homeless and impoverished.”
“I am pleased to work with our municipal partners to reduce poverty and establish adequate housing for our members who live in urban areas. By working together we can build healthier, more inclusive communities,” shared NAN Deputy Grand Chief Walter Naveau.
“The Kenora District Services Board and its Board of Directors are pleased to collaborate with Nishnawbe Aski Nation through a Memorandum of Understanding. The outcomes of the MOU and its framework will be momentous for the families and communities within the District of Kenora and NAN First Nation communities; safe, adequate and affordable housing is an essential right for everyone. Together, we look forward to identifying and implementing effective solutions and resolve to prevent and eradicate homelessness and poverty,” stated Barry Baltessen, Kenora District Services Board Chair.
“The Cochrane District Social Services Administrative Board is extremely pleased to be partnering with Nishnawbe Aski Nation on this critical initiative. Working collaboratively and learning from one another to gain a better understanding of the root causes of fundamental issues such as poverty and homelessness in our region with the goal of improving health outcomes is essential to the reconciliation and wellbeing of our respective community members. CDSSAB is committed to take action in developing and strengthening our long-term relationships with the First Nations and Tribal Councils of NAN that will lead to the enrichment of all of our communities,” commented George Pirie, Cochrane District Social Services Administration Board Chair.
The MOUs were signed before NAN leaders during the NAN Chiefs Spring Assembly held May 7-8 in Toronto.