Abstract
BACKGROUND: Housing is an important social determinant of health as the lack of housing or substandard housing conditions can negatively impact people's health and wellbeing. Indigenous Peoples in Canada are three times more likely to live in substandard housing than non-Indigenous people. The objective of this study is to examine the thoughts, feelings, and stories of citizens of the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) on how their housing conditions impact their health. METHODS: Thirty-five (35) MNO citizens were recruited for the study, and seven focus groups were conducted between August 2022 and February 2023. All focus groups were conducted via Zoom with 3-9 participants, one facilitator, one note-taker, and one MNO Senator. All focus groups were recorded. Each transcript was coded and analyzed using thematic analysis by two independent coders. RESULTS: Seven themes were derived from all focus groups: housing needs and conditions, affordability of shelter costs, renting, infrastructure and connectedness, impacts of housing on mental and emotional health, impacts of housing on physical health, and improvements to housing programs and supports. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first Métis-specific study to explore and gather the lived experiences and stories of MNO citizens regarding the impact of housing conditions on their health. Our findings revealed a multifaceted relationship between housing and health, extending beyond individual's living conditions, with a significant impact on Métis citizens' mental health. The results will be used to inform MNO housing programs to increase Métis homeownership and improve affordable housing options.