October 17, 2024 — Stephenville, Newfoundland & Labrador — Indigenous Services Canada and Newfoundland Aboriginal Women’s Network

Today marked the ceremonial opening of Ne’ata’q Place, a shelter for Indigenous women and children in Newfoundland. An initiative of the Newfoundland Aboriginal Women’s Network Inc. (NAWN), the shelter will provide a safe, supportive community for Indigenous women and children affected by family violence.

Celebrating the opening of Ne’ata’q Place were the Director of Ne’ata’q House, Michelle Skinner; Minister Hutchings on behalf of Minister Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services; community members; and representatives from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), Indigenous Services Canada (ISC).

Ne’ata’q in Mi’kmaq means the sun is coming out. The shelter will provide transitional housing and supportive services, including mental health counselling, life skills development, Indigenous cultural supports, and system navigation. The services will be provided in a welcoming, homelike environment, and the work will be rooted in traditional Mi’kmaw values and traditions, emphasizing culturally competent trauma-informed care.

Providing longer-term stays than crisis shelters, occupancy is available for up to six months. The shelter will include six light and airy rooms with self-contained kitchenettes. Two of the units, one single and one double, are fully accessible.

Funding for Ne’ata’q Place is jointly supported by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, Indigenous Services Canada, and the Town of Stephenville.

Ne’ata’q Place is scheduled to open its doors in November 2024.