This marks the first time the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations brought winter clothing for the homeless in La Ronge. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

giving back

FSIN delivers winter gear for homeless in the tri-communities

Dec 19, 2023 | 5:00 PM

The homeless population in the tri-communities will be a bit warmer this winter thanks to efforts from the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations.

“We have been doing this for a number of years and it’s just acts of kindness,” said FSIN Chief Bobby Cameron. “Any acts of kindness makes a person feel good, especially this time of the year. To clothe them and if you can feed them, all the better. They struggle every day. Every day is a challenge for them.”

The winter clothing giveaway in the tri-communities was held at the Lac La Ronge Indian Band’s Kitsaki Hall. It is the first time the initiative occurred in La Ronge with other stops recently occurring in North Battleford, Saskatoon, Regina, Prince Albert and Yorkton.

“This year was by far our biggest contribution from many partners. To date, after today’s donation, we’ve now delivered about 2,000 coats, 2,000 sets of toques, 2,000 neck warmers and we would have had 2,000 winter boots, but there was a delivery problem, so those are still coming,” Cameron said.

“This is obviously for our people who struggle in the towns and cities and the majority of those people are First Nations people, not Indigenous, First Nations people and this is our way of giving back and helping any way we can.”

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The gesture is meant to show solidarity and compassion to those struggling in the cold season. It is hoped the initiative will inspire others to help.

The FSIN urges other organizations to assist people experiencing homelessness, noting a jacket, gloves, and headgear are essential for everyone during the cold winter months.

The FSIN represents 74 First Nations in Saskatchewan. Cameron added funds for the winter clothing came from First Nations in the province, as well as internal collecting and fundraising.

“We will continue doing this,” he said. “This is our way of giving back.”

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com