The Nawican Friendship Centre and emergency homeless shelter in Dawson Creek have a new operating partner, the Aboriginal Housing Management Association. The centre, a long-standing gathering space for urban Indigenous families and community members, has been in operation for over 50 years. Stacey Bourque, the association manager, presented findings from a recent assessment of community concerns to the city council. The focus is on addressing gaps in care for vulnerable individuals, particularly those dealing with addiction, as well as tackling issues related to public intoxication and substance use that have been raised by the community.
Consultations have taken place with various stakeholders, including the city, RCMP, Northern Health, South Peace Community Resources Society, and local business owners. A formal complaint system and mitigation strategy are currently in development to enhance community safety and provide support for the unhoused population. Building trust and fostering better relationships within the community, especially with business owners facing challenges, is a key aim. The association is collaborating with the Dawson Creek Native Housing Society to secure additional housing options and comprehensive support services for those in need.
Bourque emphasized the need for more services to address addiction and housing insecurity in Dawson Creek, highlighting the lack of housing and mental health resources in the community compared to larger urban centers. The Nawican Friendship Centre is also seeking a temporary use permit to relocate the shelter to a new location approximately 300 meters from its current site on 102 Avenue. This move is expected to alleviate community concerns and potentially increase the shelter’s capacity from 17 to 24 beds.
Mayor Darcy Dober expressed appreciation for the ongoing dialogue with the association in addressing community issues and implementing positive changes based on feedback received. The collaborative efforts between the association, city officials, and various organizations aim to improve the overall well-being and safety of the Dawson Creek community.