Second-stage housing opens in Meadow Lake for women and children fleeing violence

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Waskoosis Safe Shelter is leading day-to-day programming with Meadow Lake Tribal Council Program & Services. Residents typically stay six to eight months and can access trauma-informed counselling, safety planning, family supports, life-skills training and culturally grounded, land-based healing with elders. 

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Meadow Lake Tribal Council Tribal Chief Jeremy Norman called the project an effort to protect families while creating a path forward for those leaving violence. “This project honours our responsibility to protect families and uphold the dignity of women and children,” he said. “By pairing affordable housing with trusted, culturally grounded supports, we are strengthening safety today and building independence for tomorrow.” 

Vice Chief Norma Catarat framed second-stage housing as a chance for families to recover before moving into permanent housing. “Second stage means time – time to heal, learn and stabilize,” she said. “With on-site counselling and practical supports, families can breathe, plan and take their next steps with confidence. It is a safe space for our women, our life-givers to access supportive care for themselves and their children.” 

Construction wrapped up in October 2025, with tenants beginning to move in by December. The project includes three family units and one shared unit for three individuals. The address has not been disclosed for safety reasons. 

Federal Housing and Infrastructure Minister Gregor Robertson said the project is part of a broader effort to expand secure housing options for those escaping violence. “Everyone deserves a safe place to call home. The federal government is proud to partner with Meadow Lake Tribal Council to provide access to secure, supportive housing for women and children where they can rebuild and move forward with confidence. We are working hard to end gender-based violence and strengthen communities across Saskatchewan.” 

Funding included $443,469 in federal Reaching Home support provided through Métis Nation–Saskatchewan and $877,821 from the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation through the National Housing Strategy Saskatchewan Priorities Initiative.