Piwapan offers services to those fleeing domestic violence across Northern Saskatchewan. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

critical service

Piwapan to purchase apartment building to assist those fleeing domestic violence

Aug 9, 2024 | 5:00 PM

La Ronge Native Women’s Council (Piwapan), which operates a women’s shelter and a wellness centre, has been named as a successful recipient of a federal housing grant.

Piwapan executive director Karen Sanderson explained the grant will be used to purchase an apartment building for men and women with children fleeing domestic violence, as well as for youth who are leaving a dangerous environment. Sanderson was reluctant to disclose the amount the council will receive.

“We are in the middle of doing all of the purchasing and everything right now, so I can’t really say too much yet before we get everything sorted,” she said.

Sanderson noted, however, securing the grant is a big deal for the organization as it will allow them to provide safe housing for men facing violence and who need a new start. Piwapan mostly only provide services to men through their wellness outreach services.

Piwapan currently operates an eight-room women’s shelter with the capacity of 20 people, along with a four-unit, eight-bedroom apartment building. Sanderson noted the existing apartment building is always full and there is a waiting list of people needing that kind of housing.

YEAR IN REVIEW

Carla Beck wraps up year with plan for next election

Dec 31, 2024

Year In Review

A look back at the tri-community's Top 10 stories of 2024

Dec 31, 2024

HROMEK RESIGNS

Jon Hromek steps down as Sask. United Party Leader

Dec 31, 2024

“Our shelter covers the northern region, so if we have applicants within those areas who want to relocate for safety measures, then we accommodate that,” she said.

The federal government is providing almost $34 million in funding for eight organizations in Saskatchewan totalling 1,107 units. Other communities receiving funding are Buffalo Narrows, Prince Albert, Regina and Saskatoon.

“In true partnership with Indigenous Peoples, we are getting more homes built, faster,” said Dan Vandal, the Minister of Northern Affairs, PrairiesCan and CanNor, in a media release.

“I’ve seen with my own eyes and from speaking with people directly on the ground the challenges Indigenous communities face with regards to building more homes. Hence, these projects follow a ‘By Indigenous, For Indigenous’ approach. We will always be there for communities as they take the lead to build.”

The funding is coming from National Indigenous Collaborative Housing Incorporated through a projecting aimed at addressing the critical need for safe and affordable urban, rural and northern Indigenous housing projects in Saskatchewan.

–

derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com