A number of factors affect the quality of life for Indians on reserve, ranging from economic opportunities to education. These factors can also have an impact on the overall health and wellbeing of reserve residences
Housing for Native Americans
Aboriginal people living on reserves are often concerned about access to affordable housing. This issue has become a hot topic in the media and the public debate over recent years. While there are many initiatives to provide more access to affordable and sustainable housing for First Nations communities, the availability of a sufficient amount of affordable housing is still an issue.
This is why the Canadian government has implemented several programs to help Indians and First Nations members get access to affordable housing. Some of these programs include:
Income Assistance Program (IAP)
The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation administers the IAP program to assist eligible Canadian residents on-reserve with the purchase or rental of a home. The program is designed to help First Nations and Aboriginal Canadians in Canada transition into self-sufficient lives.
CMHC has also launched the On-Reserve Housing Loan Program, to provide financing for housing projects on Indian holdings. Its goal is to increase the number of Indian homes and improve their quality of life.
In addition to financial assistance, there are many services available to First Nations and Aboriginal Canadians. These services can range from health care to education to employment.
Community Development
The Community Development Department aims to promote the social, cultural and economic well-being of First Nations and Aboriginal Canadians. This includes enhancing the quality of life in their communities through projects, activities and events.
Residential Colleges for First Year Students
A residential college is a residential community that places first year undergraduate students next door to classmates who share their major and career interests. These communities provide a supportive, close-knit community that supports the foundation for a successful four years at ASU.
These residential colleges feature programs and experiences tailored to your major, along with an array of resources and opportunities for student success. They also feature residential staff who are prepared to support you in building the foundation for your next four years at ASU.
Residential Colleges are managed by full-time, master’s level professional staff who are supported by Assistant Residential Community Directors. They oversee the day-to-day operations of the residential community and provide resident support.
The Assistant Residential Community Director’s duties include supervising the undergraduate team and assisting with the development of academic programming, peer group dialogues, and other events to build a sense of belonging and community within the residential college.
Room Reservation Requests
The Department of Community Living (DCL) welcomes requests from faculty, students and recognized Brandeis organizations to use residence hall space for meetings, events or other purposes. However, all requests are reviewed at the discretion of DCL and must be approved prior to any event taking place in a residence hall or apartment.
Interested parties should review the DCL’s policy and procedures before submitting a room reservation request. All requests must be made through the Room Reservation Request form.