A new women’s shelter has opened in northeastern Alberta to provide support to vulnerable members of a First Nation community while keeping them connected to their culture. Cold Lake First Nations (CLFN), situated about 280 kilometers northeast of Edmonton, celebrated the grand opening of its inaugural women’s shelter on Monday.
The shelter welcomed its first residents on Tuesday, offering individually decorated rooms equipped with beds, care packages, towels, desks, and other essentials. Terry Martial, the CEO of the Horelyu Dene Ts’edi Kue Society, emphasized the importance of the shelter as a safe haven for women in need, highlighting the dire circumstances some women face, such as sleeping in tents during winter.
With seven bedrooms, a shared kitchen, and living area stocked with books, games, and yoga equipment, the shelter aims to provide a homely environment. Shelter manager Tempest Lapatac mentioned that in addition to accommodation, residents will have access to various programs like healing circles, cultural teachings, language classes, and gardening activities.
Women staying at the shelter will be encouraged to take part in case management planning and can access services like addiction counseling, mental health support, education opportunities, and job training. The initiative was made possible through the community’s collaborative efforts, starting with the donation of a trailer that was transformed into the shelter.
CLFN Chief Kelsey Jacko emphasized the importance of women being able to stay connected to their culture and families while seeking refuge. The shelter’s establishment was a result of community members, leadership, and staff uniting to address the needs of struggling women within the community.
Councillor Jacinta Janvier expressed her hopes that the shelter would provide a safe and nurturing environment for women and families to thrive and move forward positively. The goal is for individuals accessing the shelter to find hope and a pathway to a better life.