More funding has been made available for a safe shelter under the Meadow Lake Tribal Council.
The tribal council has been operating the Waskoosis Safe Shelter since 1992 to ensure the safety and security of women and children fleeing domestic violence.
According to officials, however, the six-bedroom facility had a limited operational lifespan and needed several other upgrades. They say the building, in its current state, can’t accommodate individuals with limited mobility, has no suitable office space and can’t reasonably be upgraded to meet modern health and safety regulations.
The federal and provincial government have now come together to provide $1.2 million in funding for the facility.
Officials are hoping this funding can remedy the aforementioned issues.
“Working together, we will build a place of safety where vulnerable women and children are supported to restore healthy families.” said Meadow Lake Tribal Council Chief Eric Sylvestre, in a media release.
The Waskoosis Safe Shelter offers emergency shelter to up to 21 women and children fleeing domestic violence.