A fresh women’s shelter has been inaugurated in northeastern Alberta, providing crucial support for vulnerable members of the Cold Lake First Nations (CLFN) community. Situated about 280 kilometers northeast of Edmonton, the shelter offers a safe haven for women in need, ensuring they remain connected to their community and cultural roots.
The newly opened shelter features individually decorated rooms equipped with beds, care packages, towels, desks, and other essentials. Terry Martial, CEO of the Horelyu Dene Ts’edi Kue Society, emphasized the importance of the shelter in providing a secure place for women who might otherwise be sleeping outdoors in harsh winter conditions.
Addressing women’s homelessness locally was a key motivation behind establishing the shelter, Martial highlighted, underscoring the significance of safeguarding and supporting women who are integral to the community. The facility comprises seven bedrooms, a communal kitchen, and living area stocked with books, games, and yoga equipment, according to shelter manager Tempest Lapatac.
Lapatac mentioned that the shelter will not only serve as a temporary residence but also offer various programs such as healing circles, cultural teachings, language classes, gardening, and meal planning. The goal is to create a homely environment where residents can be self-sufficient and engage in daily activities independently.
Women staying at the shelter will have access to support services including case management plans, addiction counseling, mental health assistance, educational opportunities, and job training. Chief Kelsey Jacko expressed his satisfaction with providing a safe haven that allows women to remain connected to their culture and families.
The shelter’s establishment was a collaborative effort involving community members, leaders, and staff who united upon learning about the challenges faced by women in the community. The shelter symbolizes a safe space where families can flourish without fear of abuse, fostering hope and a path towards a better life for those who seek its refuge.