Reserve residences are communities where First Nations people live in the traditional ways of their ancestors. These communities are also the places where Indigenous languages are spoken and where Aboriginal cultures thrive. However, these communities face many challenges – both social and economic.
The first, and most obvious challenge that reserve communities encounter is that of poverty. This is because people living on reserves are often unable to obtain mortgages and other financing options to purchase or build homes, which is an important factor in creating stability. In addition, it is difficult for band members to secure loans to develop businesses or other small enterprises.
Secondly, many reserve communities are located in remote areas that do not offer much in the way of economic opportunities or resources. In addition, they often lack adequate roads and other essential services.
Thirdly, there are a variety of reasons why people living on reserves experience such hardships. Among these are discriminatory legislation, such as the Indian Act, and the residential school system. Other factors include social disruption, such as the forced relocation of First Nations people.
These issues are particularly significant for First Nations people who have been displaced from their original homelands. These issues are a major source of tension between First Nations people and the government at both provincial and federal levels.
There are several different types of housing on reserves. Some are simple cabins or shacks, while others may be more spacious and provide better access to utilities and services.
Some reserve residents also live in rental houses, which are usually owned by a band or tribe. These properties are sometimes used as a place to live for a brief period of time, such as during drill training.
In some cases, these units are converted into apartment-style housing for non-Indians. Other examples of these types of housing are mobile homes or other forms of mobile living, which allow families to move around from one place to another without having to move into a permanent dwelling.
Lastly, there are also many different types of public housing available on reserves. Some are subsidized, while others are paid for through taxes.
For example, the federal government pays for a portion of the cost of maintaining and improving reserves. The Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) provides loans to band members to purchase or build homes, while other programs provide financing for land development.
These programs are designed to assist members of bands in establishing and developing a sustainable economic and community infrastructure. Some are designed to help reduce the number of homeless people on reserves.
Despite the obstacles that reserve communities experience, they continue to be places where Indigenous people can survive and thrive. The plight of reserve residents is complex and there is much debate on what solutions are best for them. Nevertheless, some leaders and activists believe that the solution lies in overcoming the barriers that exist on reserves and working towards a more stable future for these communities.