Imagine Build working toward fifth accessible home on Oneida

Building accessible homes for families Another ‘Imagine Build’ project is underway for the Oneida Nation of Thames – CTV London’s Bryan Bicknell went to check it out.

A charity that builds accessible homes for Indigenous families in need on the Onieda Nation of the Thames is hoping for a big holiday push for its latest project.

“This is what Imagine Build is about,” said Imagine Build team member, Charity Doxtator.

“Because we have such a housing shortage, financially, and now since COVID, to build a home now is in excess of $300,000. So, the need here on Oneida is very, very great.”

Imagine Build has now completed four homes for Oneida families.

But the need in the community has not subsided. Imagine Build team member Jade Doxtator said they’re now hoping to get started soon on a fifth home.

“We as Anishinaabe people believe in seven generations. Everything is done for seven generations ahead of you. So, when you get a family in that home, not only are you putting them in there, but you’re putting the children, and the grandkids, somewhere to call home, their homestead,” he explained.

According to Oneida Chief Todd Cornelius, one of the reasons people leave the community is the lack of suitable housing. Part of the Imagine Build goal is to reverse that trend.

“I know the big picture would be to bring a lot of community members back to Oneida community. There aren’t that many houses, but we’re just building what we can, one at a time,” said Chief Cornelius.

Imagine Build is about $83,000 short of reaching its target for a fifth home.

Donor and Imagine Build Team member Lynn Davis, who previously donated $100,000, is making a new pledge of $8,000. She’s calling on others who are able to, to step up.

“And we had ten people give us $8,000 each, and then if we had a bunch of people give us $10, $20, $50, $100, we could actually accomplish this, and a roof would be over the head of a family of five in the spring of 2025,” said Davis.

Those wishing to make a contribution can do so at The Imagine Build's website.