Dozens of dignitaries gathered for Wednesday's grand opening. (Image Credit: Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)

By Nigel Maxwell

New beginnings

PBCN opens new women’s shelter south of Prince Albert

May 20, 2026 | 5:00 PM

The development of a new eight-unit women’s shelter south of Prince Albert represents a milestone for Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation but also a new beginning for the women and children who will be staying there.

PBCN Vice-Chief Justin Halcrow made the remark during Wednesday’s grand opening celebration, adding that Indigenous women who are fleeing domestic violence, are attempting to navigate systems that are not built for them.

“We have to respond with real supports,” he said.

Iskwew-Awasis Waskaycan, which represents a joint partnership between Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation, Indigenous Services Canada and the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, was the vision of Urban Councilor Clarisse Lecoq and has been in the works for nearly three years. She mentioned staff will begin to arrive on Monday and the intake process will begin June 8.

“We want them to know we are here for them,” she said.

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On behalf of Prince Albert Grand Council, Grand Chief Brian Hardlotte and Vice-Chief Chris Jobb congratulated the project team.

“You’re not only gonna make those little families happy, you are going to build a healthy community,” Jobb said.

Second Vice-Chief Joseph Tsannie told the crowd he grew up in a home where there was domestic violence and the only option for himself and his mother was to stay at a hotel in La Ronge.

On behalf of Indigenous Services Canada, Merv Morin explained the shelter represents a national initiative that was started in 2021.

“Projects like this are about more than just housing. They are are about providing dignity, health and safety and making sure Indigenous women, children and 2SLGBTQ+ can access the supports they need, grounded in their culture and here in their home community,” he said.

To show support for the women and children staying at the shelter, everyone in attendance was asked to stand up, form a circle and hold hands. (Image Credit: Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)

nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

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by Nigel Maxwell

PBCN opens new women’s shelter south of Prince Albert

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