Improving Homes, One Project at a Time

For many years, housing has remained one of the most important priorities for Pabineau First Nation. While the community has welcomed approximately 25 new homes in recent years, many other homes continue to age and require significant repairs and upgrades.

In a recent video, Susan Ducasse, Councillor and Lead of Capital Construction for Pabineau First Nation, shared the challenges and successes of improving housing conditions throughout the community.

Susan explained that many of the older homes were originally constructed differently than the homes being built today.

As these homes age, the need for repairs and energy-efficiency upgrades continues to grow. For many families, the cost of making these improvements on their own can be overwhelming.

Recognizing these challenges, Susan began actively pursuing funding opportunities to help community members improve their homes. By combining support from multiple programs, including Energy Efficiency Funding, Indigenous Services Canada funding, and the Rapid Housing Initiative, Pabineau First Nation was able to begin making meaningful upgrades to existing homes.

One important source of support has been the First Nations Energy Efficiency Funding Program, which helps fund energy-efficiency upgrades for on-reserve homes across New Brunswick.

The work began with three homes.

"Initially we were able to upgrade three homes. It was incredibly difficult to pick these three homes because people are desperate. They want to fix their home, but they can't fix it."

The demand for housing improvements far exceeds available funding, making every decision difficult. Susan emphasized that the community's goal is not simply to help a few homes, but to improve housing conditions throughout Pabineau.

"We as a community want to fix all of our homes. The problem is we can't. Funding and energy upgrades need to be accessible to all."

Thanks to continued advocacy and successful funding applications, the program has continued to grow.

This year, six homes received upgrades, and plans are already underway to improve an additional six homes next year.

Susan's vision remains focused on long-term progress and ensuring every family has access to a safe, comfortable, and energy-efficient home.

"My goal is to get through my entire community to make it a better place for all."

While there is still much work to be done, these projects represent important steps toward improving housing quality, reducing energy costs, and creating healthier living environments for community members.

Pabineau First Nation would like to thank Susan Ducasse and everyone involved in securing funding, managing projects, and supporting homeowners as this important work continues.