At the Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary (AFCC), we firmly believe that safe, stable, and culturally appropriate housing is fundamental to individual and community well-being. Addressing housing insecurity within Calgary’s urban Indigenous community is a critical priority for us.
More than just shelter, our initiatives include vital support services designed to empower residents, foster long-term stability, and help individuals and families thrive within a connected community.
Programs and Facilities
Aboriginal Housing Initiative (AHI)
About
This program provides subsidized housing combined with intensive case management to support Indigenous individuals in maintaining stable housing. We utilize wrap-around cultural supports, guided by the Medicine Wheel, to help participants work on their goals.
Goals
To equip participants with essential life skills, empowering them to successfully transition out of the program and live independently with minimal support.
Who it Helps
Self-identifying Indigenous single adults.
Why it's Important
Provides crucial support and skills needed for independent living and stability.
Location
Within the community.
Get Involved
AHI is referral-based; individuals need to complete a NSQ (Needs and Services Questionnaire) assessment at the SORCe or other CAA agencies.
Contact
Cynthia Leechuy (Housing Team Lead, cleechuy@afccalgary.org.)
Six clients are preparing to graduate from the program; recently supported a client released from incarceration to immediately access detox services. These moments reflect resilience and the beginning of a new path.
The Elders’ Lodge (Omahkitapioyis)
About Omahkitapioyis (The Elders' Lodge)
Omahkitapioyis, meaning “Elders’ Lodge” in Blackfoot, is a cornerstone of AFCC’s commitment to honouring and supporting our Elders.
This award-winning, AFCC-owned and operated building provides a welcoming and culturally vibrant home in Calgary. Our 12-unit, non-market affordable apartment building offers fully furnished suites specifically designed for comfortable, independent living.
More than just individual dwellings, Omahkitapioyis is a community primarily focused on providing a safe, dignified, and culturally connected home for Indigenous seniors through these independent apartments, while fostering an inclusive environment that respects all residents. It also features a state-of-the-art solar energy system, reflecting our commitment to sustainability.
Our Goals for The Elders' Lodge Apartments
At Omahkitapioyis, our focused goals are to:
- Provide safe, secure, and truly affordable independent apartment living, with a primary focus on Indigenous Elders.
- Foster a strong sense of community, belonging, and mutual support among all residents within the apartment complex.
- Create an apartment environment rich in Indigenous cultural connection, offering spaces and opportunities for residents to engage in land-based teachings, ceremonies, traditional crafts, and healing practices from the comfort of their community.
- Enhance the overall well-being of our Elders – spiritually, emotionally, mentally, and physically – as they live independently.
- Support independent living with dignity within a culturally affirming apartment community.
Who the Elders' Lodge Apartments Helps
Omahkitapioyis (The Elders’ Lodge Apartments) offers affordable, independent living apartments Calgary.
While applications may be welcomed from all seeking a supportive and respectful community, our core mission and priority are to provide a culturally safe, enriching, and connected home through these apartments for Indigenous Elders.
We are dedicated to creating an environment where Indigenous traditions, languages, and ways of knowing are celebrated and form an integral part of life for our residents, contributing to a diverse and harmonious apartment community.
Why The Elders' Lodge Apartments are Important
The Elders’ Lodge Apartments address a critical need for affordable housing that is also deeply resonant with Indigenous culture and values for seniors seeking an independent living setting in Calgary. These apartments are important because they:
- Offer a safe haven that combats isolation and provides security, with a focus on the unique needs of Indigenous Elders maintaining their independence.
- Actively support Indigenous cultural identity and continuity by integrating traditional practices and providing spaces for cultural expression within the apartment community.
- Contribute to the healing journey and reconciliation by providing a place where Indigenous Elders are profoundly respected, valued, and can live independently with dignity.
- Create a vibrant apartment community where residents can enjoy companionship, activities, and connection to other AFCC services, all within a culturally affirming setting.
Location
Omahkitapioyis (The Elders’ Lodge Apartments) is situated in the Highland Park neighbourhood of Calgary, providing a peaceful residential setting.
- Address: 352 34 Ave NE, Calgary, AB T2E 2J7
Interested in Living at Omahkitapioyis (The Elders' Lodge Apartments)?
Omahkitapioyis offers independent living apartments. Our primary commitment is to ensure Indigenous Elders have access to this unique, affordable, and culturally vibrant housing. Due to the specific nature of our community and high demand, we typically maintain a waitlist.
If you are interested in learning more about eligibility for these apartments, the application process, or current availability, we encourage you to reach out. Our team can provide you with the necessary information. Please note that priority is given in alignment with our mission to serve Indigenous Elders seeking independent living.
Contact
For all inquiries regarding Omahkitapioyis (The Elders’ Lodge Apartments), including applications and waitlist information, please contact:
- Email: elderslodge@afccalgary.org
- Attention: Corbin Huber, Building Manager
You can also call the main AFCC line at (403) 270-7379 for assistance.
Residents consistently express immense gratitude. They enjoy crafting activities and transportation to the Elders Drop-in Centre for programming. The residents themselves make the Lodge special.
The Bromley Place
About
Bromley Place is an 8-unit affordable housing apartment building owned and operated by the Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary (AFCC). Conveniently located near Centre Street and bus stops, Bromley Place provides affordable housing. While we prioritize support for Indigenous individuals and clients of the Aboriginal Housing Initiative (AHI) program, all interested individuals are welcome to apply, contributing to AFCC’s commitment to supporting the community through accessible housing solutions.
Eligibility
All individuals seeking affordable housing are encouraged to apply. The Aboriginal Housing Initiative (AHI) program offers specialized supports and services tailored to Indigenous individuals and families. If you are interested in learning more about the AHI program, or for details on the housing application process at Bromley Place, please inquire with Cynthia Leechuy, AHI Manager.
How to Apply/Inquire
To apply for housing at Bromley Place, or to learn more about the application process and the AHI program, please contact Cynthia Leechuy, AHI Manager, at cleechuy@afccalgary.org. She can provide details on eligibility criteria and current vacancies.
Future Development: Culturally Safe Family Housing
Building on the success of the Elders’ Lodge, AFCC is proud to announce its selection through the City of Calgary’s Non-Market Housing Land Disposition program to develop a new affordable housing project. This transformative initiative will create 9 townhomes designed for families on a City-owned site. More than just housing, this development aims to foster a true sense of belonging and community. It will feature culturally enriched spaces designed for ceremonies, cultural programming, and community connection, promoting stability, healing, and empowerment for resident families. Key partners involved in bringing this vision to life include Knightsbridge Architecture & Construction and North Wind Management Corp. As CEO Shane Gauthier stated:
“This project is about more than bricks and mortar—it’s the foundation for stronger families and a more vibrant Indigenous community in Calgary…”.
