Métis Veterans Plaza

Phase 1

The Grand Opening of Métis Veterans Plaza has been a long time in the making and our most ambitious project to date. Starting in 2023, this project is a model of social innovation, designed with tenants and driven by their needs first. Engagement sessions invited prospective tenants, staff, stakeholders, funders and designers into a community-centered design process that ensured everyone had a voice. By involving tenants in the design process, we were able to create a space that promotes intergenerational wellness, empowerment, and a sense of community.

In January 2026, we are celebrating the completion of the first of two phases of development—a result of significant investment from SaskNative Rentals and Camponi Housing, as well as CMHC, the Province of Saskatchewan, and the City of Saskatoon. As we celebrate this milestone, we honour those people that started his process and changed the face of Saskatoon by creating a place for Métis housing in the city.

SaskNative Rentals & Camponi Housing Corporation

SaskNative Rentals and Camponi Housing Corporation are a Métis-led housing provider dedicated to offering safe, affordable housing for Métis and Indigenous individuals and families in Saskatoon. We believe that stable housing is the foundation for personal growth, family well-being, and community strength. With a current housing portfolio of 397 units and over 51 years in operation, we are Saskatchewan’s largest Métis housing provider. Our organization was founded by concerned Métis citizens who recognized a problem in Saskatoon and did something about it. Initially, their efforts were focused around social and health issues, but evolved into housing when they recognized that stable housing was a critical component for healing and wellness. These founders were all part of a close knit Métis community, and many of them also shared the experience of being veterans.

Clarence Trotchie served with distinction with the South Alberta Regiment until his honorable discharge from active duty in 1945. Ron Camponi spent 30 years in the army and served on the front lines in the Korean War. Tony Camponi was a veteran of the Korean War and was president of the Métis Veterans Association. The Vandales (Lionel, Gordon, Ernie and Harry) sat as directors of the early corporation (SaskNative Housing). Claude Petit is a decorated soldier who served his country in the Korean War and served his people as a director of the SaskNative Rentals board. He also served as President of the Métis Veterans Association. In tribute to those brave, dedicated, and distinguished Métis veterans and leaders, we are proud to name this project in their honour: Métis Veterans Plaza.

Our Team

Joint Oversight Steering Committee:
Angela Bishop
Ron Rivard

Project Manager: Adam Kulrich

Project Assistant: Jamie Johnson

Desiree Chartier
Leon McAuley

Architect: RBM Architecture Inc.

General Contractor: Wright Construction