The Aboriginal Housing Management Association has become the new managing partner of the Nawican Friendship Centre and emergency homeless shelter in Dawson Creek. Having served the urban Indigenous community for over five decades, the Nawican Friendship Centre is a vital hub for families and individuals. Stacey Bourque, the association manager, presented a report to the city council after a six-week assessment of community concerns and issues.
Bourque emphasized the Association’s commitment to bridging gaps in care for vulnerable populations, particularly those struggling with addiction. Additionally, efforts are being made to address public intoxication and substance use complaints from the community, as compassion fatigue among residents is a growing concern.
Collaborating with various stakeholders such as the city, RCMP, Northern Health, South Peace Community Resources Society, and local businesses, the Association is developing a formal complaint system and mitigation strategy. The primary objectives are community safety and providing support for individuals experiencing homelessness.
To enhance community relations and address challenges faced by local businesses, Bourque stressed the importance of building trust and fostering better relationships within the community. Plans for operational changes to improve community safety and establish accountability frameworks are underway, with a draft to be shared with the city upon completion.
In partnership with the Dawson Creek Native Housing Society, efforts are being made to secure additional housing options for those in need, aiming to transition individuals from the streets and offer comprehensive support services. Bourque highlighted the urgent need for more services to combat addiction and housing insecurity in Dawson Creek, acknowledging the city’s shortage in these critical areas compared to larger urban centers.
As part of their efforts to address community concerns, the Nawican Friendship Centre is applying for a temporary use permit to relocate the shelter to a new site approximately 300 meters away from its current location on 102 Avenue. This move is expected to address many of the issues raised by the community while potentially increasing the shelter’s capacity from 17 to 24 beds.
Mayor Darcy Dober expressed gratitude for the ongoing collaboration between the association and the city in addressing community issues and making positive changes based on community feedback.