Stackabl Housing Initiative: Exploring Housing and Economic Opportunities

Posted on by kiaralc

Huu-ay-aht First Nations (HFN) continues to explore the Stackabl modular housing initiative, which aims to address housing needs while also creating broader economic opportunities for the Nation.

Over the past two years, HFN has been working closely with Stackabl Homes BC to understand better the technology, supply chain, and long-term potential of modular housing. This has included delegations to China, internal due diligence, and engagement with various government organizations and agencies. As part of their commitment to the project, Stackabl has covered the costs associated with the China delegations, allowing HFN to participate in this important due diligence work without placing a financial burden on the Nation. In addition, Stackabl has opened offices in Vancouver and Nanaimo and provided a job opportunity to one of the Huu-ay-aht citizens.

A key milestone has been reached: the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) has approved Stackabl Homes BC’s manufacturing and technology partners. This makes them the first offshore Canadian manufacturing unit to obtain CSA-A277 certification, allowing them to manufacture housing for the Canadian market. In early June, Huu-ay-aht returned to China for a follow-up visit to understand the manufacturing process further and explore opportunities to integrate Huu-ay-aht forestry resources into the supply chain.

The project is gaining strong interest across the region, with active discussions underway with multiple stakeholders, institutions, and First Nations on Vancouver Island regarding potential affordable housing projects. A CSA-certified demonstration unit with BC Step Code 4 is planned for installation in Port Renfrew in August, helping to showcase the product and support engagement with communities, governments, and partners.

Huu-ay-aht First Nations is currently working on a pre-feasibility study, which is expected to be concluded by November 2026. This study will analyze the supply chain, demand, product viability, and cost before stepping into a full feasibility stage that could support a joint venture between HFN and Stackabl Homes BC. By exploring the viability of bringing housing manufacturing directly to HFN treaty settlement lands, this initiative ultimately aims to unleash the wealth of our nism̓a (land) and create sustainable jobs for citizens.

While still in the early stages, this initiative has the potential to support housing development, create jobs, and contribute to long-term economic growth in the region.

FIFA World Cup Watch Party Brings Communities Together in Anacla

Posted on by kiaralc
Citizens and visitors watching FIFA game at the House of Huu-ay-aht on Tuesday, July 7, 2026 (Photo by Huu-ay-aht Communications).

The fusion of culture and the global excitement of soccer brought Anacla together with neighbouring communities on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, for a monumental FIFA World Cup Watch Party and Community Day.

Tuesday’s festivities were among many other watch parties and community events since June organized by the 2026 Alberni Valley Indigenous-Led Soccer Community Celebration, a historic regional festival funded by the Province of British Columbia through a $90,000 grant from the 2026 Community Event Support Fund. The initiative represents a powerful partnership between the Hupačasatḥ, c̓išaaʔatḥ (Tseshaht), and Huu-ay-aht First Nations, aimed at creating a lasting sports legacy and bringing Truth and Reconciliation to life through soccer.

The morning kicked off at the Upper Anacla Field with an energetic soccer clinic led by Sam Hodgetts from Ditidaht First Nation. Around 15 eager young participants from the communities of Nitinat, Anacla, and Bamfield took to the field to sharpen their skills and run through drills.

By midday, the action shifted to the House of Huu-ay-aht. Attendees were treated to a warm welcome ceremony and a barbecue lunch prepared by Sarah Johnson. While lunch was served, citizens, community members, and visitors connected with hands-on cedar bark weaving lessons.

In the afternoon, the House of Huu-ay-aht transformed into a world-class sports arena for the highly anticipated FIFA World Cup match between Switzerland and Colombia.

Equipped with chairs and community spirit, Huu-ay-aht Citizens gathered with visitors from Nitinat, Bamfield, Port Alberni, and Pachena Bay Campground.

The viewing experience was brought to life by Five Acre Co. Staging and Productions Services, who installed a massive 8×14-foot screen paired with a superior, stadium-quality sound system. The immersive audiovisual setup delivered an electric atmosphere, leaving attendees feeling as though they were at the game.

The Switzerland-Colombia match went to extra time, remaining scoreless after 120 minutes before moving to penalties. Ruben Vargas struck the winning penalty to secure a 4-3 shootout victory for Switzerland, advancing the team to the quarterfinals.

Huu-ay-aht First Nations would like to raise our hands to the event organizers at the 2026 Alberni Valley Indigenous-Led Soccer Community Celebration, the Province of British Columbia, Sam Hodgetts, Sarah Johnson, Five Acre Co., and all attendees. Your hard work and dedication did not go unnoticed, and it allowed our communities to celebrate together.

If you are looking for a place to watch the FIFA World Cup final on Sunday, July 19, 2026, the Alberni Valley Indigenous-Led Soccer Community Celebration will host the game at The KCC (4090 Hollywood St.) in Port Alberni. Doors open at 10 a.m.; the game starts at 12 p.m. The event is free and for all ages, with food, beverages, and the community coming together!

Huu-ay-aht Youth Honoured with Indigenous Role Model Award

Posted on by kiaralc

On Thursday, April 16, marked a significant milestone for the Huu-ay-aht First Nations community as Gaige Manson was formally recognized at the Semá:th First Nation Longhouse. The son of the late Timothy Manson and grandson of Marleen Nookemus, Gaige was named one of only ten students in the Fraser Valley to receive the prestigious Indigenous Role Model Award. This honour follows a highly competitive selection process involving over 100 student applicants, with each recipient earning a $1,000 scholarship to support their future endeavours.

Gaige Manson is recognized as an Indigenous Role Model (Photo by Abbotsford School District).

To earn this distinction at Yale Secondary, Gaige had to meet a rigorous set of district-wide standards that emphasize cultural connection, academic focus, and community service. Throughout his four years of high school, he demonstrated great commitment to his heritage by enrolling in language classes every single year. Beyond the classroom, he was a visible leader on his rugby team and an active participant in school culture, embodying the “Lion Pride” and inclusive spirit expected of the district’s top student mentors.

Gaige’s path to this award was solidified by a comprehensive video application that showcased his resilience and his reputation as an “overall good human” with strong marks. His leadership extends into the school’s Link Crew and various Indigenous clubs, where he has acted as a positive motivator for younger students. His ability to balance the physical demands of athletics with the academic discipline required for graduation made him a standout candidate during the rigorous review process.

With high school graduation on the horizon, Gaige has already mapped out a clear and practical path for his professional life. He plans to transition his dedication and hands-on work ethic into the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) plumbing program. By pursuing professional training and working toward becoming a certified plumber, Gaige intends to turn his technical interests into a sustainable career, continuing to serve as a role model for Huu-ay-aht youth by proving that dedication to one’s roots and one’s future go hand in hand.

Looking for support with post-secondary, trades, or training? Contact Education, Employment, & Training Manager, Brent at brent.r@huuayaht.org or 250-723-0100.

Honouring the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit Persons with Community Gathering

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On Tuesday, May 5, Huu-ay-aht First Nations honoured Red Dress Day – the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit Persons (MMIWG2S+). The day brought together not only Huu-ay-aht citizens but also residents of Port Alberni and Bamfield, drawing an estimated 100 participants across two locations. Attendees arrived dressed in red, each finding their own way to wear the colour in support of healing and transformation.

Huu-ay-aht First Nation Anacla Government Office
Huu-ay-aht First Nation Port Alberni Government Office


The gathering opened with a cultural song, grounding the day in tradition and collective mourning. Speaker Rowena Keitlah took time to share personal stories and grief, creating a safe space for the community to sit with the weight of this day together, honouring those who are no longer here and the families still waiting for answers.
Throughout the event, attendees crafted red-dress beads and participated in a colouring activity. At the same time, a BBQ lunch featuring hot dogs and hamburgers brought neighbours together over shared plates and conversation. The strong turnout across both the Anacla and Port Alberni locations reflected the depth of community commitment to honouring MMIWG2S+.

To learn more about MMIWG2S+ and the National Inquiry, visit www.mmiwg-ffada.ca.

Notice from Maʔas taqimł Housing Society

Posted on by Huu-ay-aht Communications

March 21, 2025

Re: Housing Manager Departure

The Board of the Maʔas taqimł Housing Society is posting this message to announce the departure of Housing Manager, Aaron Enns. Aaron leaves us with our thanks for his work as our Housing Manager. We wish him well as he moves on to new challenges.

Until we have recruited a permanent Housing Manager, we have appointed Kurt Kranz to the role of Interim Housing Manager. Please contact the Interim housing Manager at (250) 731-5001 or manager@hfnha.org for any housing-related issues until further notice.

Sincerely,

MAʔAS TAQIMŁHOUSING SOCIETY

View official Public Notice: Here