Raven Ozhigaa Development
A First Nations-led non-profit housing corporation.
Raven Ozhigaa Development
A First Nations-led non-profit housing corporation.
A First Nations-led non-profit housing corporation.
A First Nations-led non-profit housing corporation.
Raven Ozhigaa Development (ROD), founded in 2023 by industry expert Donna Mathieson, stands as a pioneering force in addressing the housing crisis within Canada's First Nations communities. As a 100% First Nations and woman-led residential construction organization, ROD aims to eradicate substandard living conditions by offering high-quality, low-maintenance, Ready-to-Move (RTM) modular homes designed to endure Canada's unpredictable and rapidly evolving climate.
The company's primary focus is developing highly durable, energy-efficient, homes for un- and under-housed Indigenous individuals and families living on- and off-reserve. The uniquely designed modular homes are also well suited as infill projects for other un-housed populations including the growing number of homeless living in Winnipeg.
Homelessness has steadily become a larger human and public policy challenge across the country and here in Manitoba over the past two decades. At least 235,000 people were estimated to be homeless in Canada for at least some part of the year in 2016. An AI-generated projection estimates that the number will more than double to 550,000 by 2030. Broken down further, that aggregate number reflects some disturbing trends.
• 25,0000 - 35,000 people are estimated to be homeless each and every night
• 62% of those are male
• 52% are between the ages of 25-49
• A growing percentage of the homeless are children (3,000 in 2020)
Of growing concern is the number of Canadian households spending more than the benchmark 30% of their gross income on shelter costs. In 2016, 1.7 million households were spending above that recommended number, with many households needing to allot up to 50% of family income to housing costs.
In Manitoba, 1,260 individuals were identified as homeless in a Point in Time (PiT) study in 2022, 66% of whom identified as Indigenous (nationally that number is 31%). Indigenous people are over-represented among the un- and under-housed due in large part to inter-generational trauma and the harms of colonialism and structural racism.
Despite being the seventh largest city in Canada, Winnipeg has the largest total population of urban and off-reserve Indigenous people in one city (90,095), 48,000 of whom are Métis and 40,300 of whom are First Nations.
In these changing times, we recognize the need for space where people can feel safe, grounded, and connected- both to each other and to the teachings that have nurtured us for generations. The homes we build are not just physical structures but are living expressions of our traditions, our resilience, and our vision for a harmonious and thriving future for people.
To create homes that honor the ways our ancestors lived -sustainably, simply and with deep respect for all that surrounds us. These homes will be built with care, using materials and methods that tread lightly on the land, guided by the principles of reciprocity and stewardship. In these spaces, we aim to foster a sense of belonging, well-being, and cultural continuity.
A high energy efficiency modular home is a pre-fabricated dwelling designed with advanced building techniques and materials to minimize energy consumption while maintaining comfort and sustainability. Here are some the key features:
Adaptability Modular design allows for future expansion or reconfiguration as needs change, contributing to long-term sustainability.
Overall, a high energy efficiency modular home represents the intersection of cutting-edge building technology, sustainability, and smart design, offering a comfortable living space with a minimal environmental impact.
The ROD RTM, at the smallest size available, measures 15’ x 39’ in size (585 sq ft). The maximum width of the home can be 26’ with no limitations in length. The product features a consistent rectangular design. While the external shape remains unchanged, the interior can be tailored to suit individual customer preferences. These homes fall under the modular category, allowing for structures to be placed side by side for expanded square footage or stacked using cranes to create multi-level accommodations. Preliminary layouts are featured below.
ROD utilizes triple pane, shatterproof glass for all windows. This glass keeps cold Canadian winds from entering the home, eliminating drafts and whistling noises. This significantly enhances energy efficiency and minimizes heating and cooling expenses. The glass can withstand harsh weather conditions and increases security by resisting breakage.
While some competitors incorporate similar glass in their window solutions, they offer it as an add-on, with considerable markup, rather than including it in the standard home package. At ROD, this shatterproof glass is available for everybody to enjoy its protective and energy-efficient features.
Water as a fundamental human right is a recurring topic in media discussions concerning Indigenous communities. Some communities in Canada have never had access to drinkable tap water (McCarthy, n.d.). ROD addresses this by offering a five-stage filtration system at cost with competitors known to markup this essential system by 50% or more. Water filtration ensures a clean and safe water supply, promoting health and well-being removing the need for extra steps like boiling water. Customers no longer need to refuse clean drinking water due to financial constraints. This is another example highlighting that innovation does not have to be grandiose.
ROD homes prioritize fire safety by using special paint on walls and ceilings that help prevent fires. Every room has a fire suppression canister, with the electrical panel having its own automatic fire suppression system. The metal roof and metal siding contribute to fire safety as well. Lastly, weather shield insulation, made from recycled local materials, saves money, improves fire safety, and fills small truss spaces for added protection which is not possible with standard insulation. ROD is working closely with a Fire Code Consultant to continue innovating the product for fire safety and prevention.
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