A new shelter dedicated to women has opened in northeastern Alberta, providing vital support to vulnerable members of the Cold Lake First Nations community while preserving their cultural ties. The grand opening of the women’s shelter, located approximately 280 kilometers northeast of Edmonton, took place on Monday, with women starting to move in the following day.
Each room in the shelter is uniquely decorated and equipped with essentials such as beds, care packages, towels, and desks to offer a safe and comfortable space for women in need. Terry Martial, the CEO of the Horelyu Dene Ts’edi Kue Society, emphasized the importance of the shelter as a critical resource for women seeking refuge from homelessness and harsh conditions.
The facility features seven bedrooms, a communal kitchen, and living area furnished with books, games, and yoga equipment. Shelter manager Tempest Lapatac mentioned that various programs, including healing circles, cultural teachings, language classes, gardening, and meal planning, will be provided by staff, elders, and community members. Lapatac highlighted the shelter’s aim to provide a homely environment while encouraging residents to be self-sufficient in their daily tasks.
Women can stay at the shelter for up to 30 days and are encouraged to actively participate in developing case management plans. They will also have access to addiction counseling, mental health support, educational opportunities, and job training to empower them towards a brighter future. The initiative to establish the shelter stemmed from a donated trailer that was retrofitted for this purpose, with Chief Kelsey Jacko emphasizing the importance of maintaining cultural connections and family ties while ensuring a safe haven for women within the First Nation community.
Community efforts, supported by leadership and staff, led to the realization of the shelter, driven by a collective desire to provide a secure environment for women and families facing challenges. The vision behind the shelter, as expressed by CLFN councillor Jacinta Janvier, is to offer a sanctuary where individuals can find hope and rebuild their lives in a positive and nurturing setting.