MMF Announces New Frank Bruce Métis Seniors Complex

August 14, 2020

Winnipeg, MB - On Monday, August 17 at 2:00 p.m., the Manitoba Metis Federation (MMF) will be celebrating the Grand Opening of the Frank Bruce Métis Seniors Complex in the historic Métis Community of St. Laurent in the Interlake region of Manitoba. The complex is located on Father Guy Lavallee Bay across from the Rural Municipality office on Veterans Memorial Road.

This significant investment is the first major construction project completed under the Canada-Métis Nation Housing Sub-Accord signed in 2018. Construction commenced July 2019 and was completed August 1, 2020. Government-to-Government relations with Canada and the Rural Municipality of St. Laurent have contributed to the success of this affordable, safe, and fully accessible housing for seniors in Manitoba.

"The Frank Bruce Métis Seniors Complex is the first new build under the Canada-Métis Nation Housing Sub-Accord, and it is just another testament of the Métis Nation's relationship with the federal government," states MMF Minister of Housing and Property Management Will Goodon. "Our Citizens informed us of the need and importance of housing for our Elders and seniors, and so our government took concrete action to meet that need."

This complex has nine units, eight of which are wood-frame and one is steel-frame. Steel-framed housing is a new and eco-friendly housing technology. These housing units are built to be smart and are designed to be age-friendly homes and contain special features such as a full sunroom, handrails, lowered light switches, and wheelchair-accessible bathrooms and kitchens with full access to the oven, cupboards and shower to accommodate those with mobility issues, among other unique accessibility features. Each unit has two bedrooms. In addition to the nine units, there is one communal building that serves as a gathering space for Elders and residents of St. Laurent.

"The short- and long-term initiatives of the Métis Government effectively continue to produce positive and robust social and economic impacts in Manitoba," commented MMF President David Chartrand. "This housing project and other developments across the province not only provide safe and affordable housing to Métis Nation Citizens, but also invest in the community by providing jobs and necessary skills training, support local businesses, and encourage the expansion and upgrading of local infrastructure."

By recognizing one Veteran, one recognizes all Veterans and honors the memory of their achievements and sacrifices. Mr. Bruce is a Métis WWII Veteran and prominent community member of St. Laurent. President Chartrand, who also serves as the Vice-President of the Métis National Council, continues to lead the National Métis Veterans file.

"Recognition throughout the homeland is essential for future generations. These heroes deserve to be mentioned, remembered and never forgotten," said President Chartrand.

"We respect and are forever grateful for the sacrifices of all Veterans," concluded Minister Goodon. "Veteran Frank Bruce cared so deeply about his community; it is only fitting that a project aimed at helping his hometown of St. Laurent be named in his honour. Whether they are returning to their hometown to enjoy retirement or if maintaining a house has become too difficult, Métis seniors and Elders will find an affordable, safe and accessible place to call home in the Frank Bruce Métis Seniors Complex."

For more information on this announcement from the Manitoba Metis Federation, including other economic or Veteran initiatives, please visit www.mmf.mb.ca.

-30-

Believe in Yourself; Believe in Métis.

The Manitoba Metis Federation (MMF) is the democratic self-governing political representative for the Métis Nation's Manitoba Métis Community. The Manitoba Métis Community is Canada's Partner in Confederation and the Founder of the Province of Manitoba.

For media information, please contact:
Marci Riel
Manitoba Metis Federation
Cell: 204-619-1228
Email: marci.riel@mmf.mb.ca
www.mmf.mb.ca

 


View More

B300-150 Henry Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3B 0J7

^ * ( &

Métis Nation Database
Unite Interactive