DESCRIPTION
Danakiiwiin on Court is an Indigenous-led, non-profit adaptive reuse of the former Thunder Bay post office into a mixed-income housing development delivering 81 units, including 29 affordable homes (37%), directly addressing urgent local housing needs, prioritizing Indigenous People and Families. Majority owned by First Nation organizations, Missanabie Cree Business LP (Missanabie Cree First Nation) and White Lake Limited Partnership (Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg), along with AsOne International Foundation (Summers & Co.), the project advances reconciliation through community ownership, long-term economic participation, and inclusive design. It includes 11,000 sq. ft. of commercial & community space to support complimentary local services and economic development. At its core, the project leverages adaptive reuse (one of the most climate-responsible development approaches) significantly reducing embodied carbon & construction waste while revitalizing existing infrastructure. Solar integration and potential on-site food growing systems further strengthen sustainability and resilience.
DETAILS
Affordability Framework
75% MMR
Target Completion Date
March 2027
Populations Served
Indigenous
Total Project Cost
$31,550,600
Total Units
81
Affordable Units
29
Project Funding
Funding Required
We are seeking $1,875,000 in last-mile capital funding to optimize the available space and maximize the impact of the Danakiiwiin on Court project by adding an additional 11 units within otherwise underutilized building spaces. The original project scope is already under construction, with permits issued and construction commenced, including demolition and remediation, and the project team fully mobilized. Funding is required immediately to align with the active construction schedule and to ensure long-term project sustainability. The Last Mile capital would support the current minor budget shortfall, as per Class A, as well as enable the much-needed additional 11 units, further ensuring project impact and sustainability. Lease-up is anticipated in March 2027, and timely funding is critical to maintain momentum. All affordable units will be delivered at or below 75% of market rent in Thunder Bay, significantly advancing affordability outcomes.
Funds Raised
· $21,235,000 — CMHC AHF repayable loan (confirmed)
• $5,250,000 — CMHC AHF forgivable [non repayable] loan (confirmed)
• $521,899 [cash equity] (confirmed)
• $259,802 [land equity] (confirmed)
• $1,600,000 Affordable Rental Housing Grant [City of Thunder Bay] (confirmed)
• $68,200 — CMHC Seed loan (confirmed)
• $740,699 [Federal Lands Initiatives CMHC] (forgivable loan)
TOTAL FUNDS RAISED = $29,675,600
Total Project Cost: $31,550,600
Request: $1,875,000
Use of funds
Requested funds will increase the number of affordable units in the project to 81 units and will support the long-term sustainability of this affordable housing project. The project will provide safe, stable housing for 81 households, where demand for affordable and culturally-grounded housing for Indigenous People is chronic and remains critical. By leveraging and enhancing an active construction project, this investment delivers immediate, scalable impact by expanding housing supply, strengthening community stability, and advancing Indigenous-led, culturally grounded spaces, protecting affordability and ‘Reconciliation in Action’ without delaying project timelines.
MAP
