A newly established women’s shelter in northeastern Alberta is providing vital support to vulnerable members of a First Nation community while emphasizing connection to their cultural roots.
The Cold Lake First Nations (CLFN), situated approximately 280 kilometers northeast of Edmonton, celebrated the official opening of their inaugural women’s shelter on Monday. The facility welcomed its first residents on Tuesday.
Each room at the shelter is thoughtfully adorned and furnished with a bed, care packages, towels, a desk, and other necessities for women seeking refuge. Terry Martial, the CEO of the Horelyu Dene Ts’edi Kue Society, a non-profit organization that offers community wellness, cultural assistance, and social initiatives for CLFN, highlighted the shelter’s significance in providing a safe haven for women in need.
Martial expressed concerns about local women enduring harsh conditions, stating that accommodating them in tents during winter was unacceptable. She emphasized the shelter’s role in protecting and supporting women, recognizing them as the backbone of any society.
Featuring seven bedrooms, a communal kitchen, and a living area furnished with books, games, and yoga equipment, the shelter aims to create a nurturing environment. Shelter manager Tempest Lapatac mentioned that the staff, elders, and community members will offer various programs including healing circles, cultural teachings, language classes, gardening sessions, and meal planning.
The shelter is designed to offer a homely atmosphere while promoting independence among residents, who will be responsible for their own cooking and cleaning. Lapatac stated that women can stay at the shelter for up to 30 days and will be encouraged to engage in case management plans, as well as access addiction counseling, mental health services, educational opportunities, and job training.
CLFN Chief Kelsey Jacko emphasized the importance of preserving cultural ties and family connections for women seeking refuge, underscoring the shelter’s role in promoting healing and security within the community. Councilor Jacinta Janvier credited the collaborative efforts of community members, leaders, and staff in establishing the shelter in response to the needs of vulnerable women in the area.
The shelter’s inception was made possible through the donation and retrofitting of a trailer, symbolizing a significant step towards providing a haven where women and families can thrive and heal without fear of abuse. The community hopes that the shelter will inspire hope and facilitate positive transformations in the lives of those seeking its support.