Métis elders’ lodge celebrates grand opening

Providing safe, accessible housing for Metis elders in Saskatoon has been years in the making for  provincial Indigenous organizations.

The Central Urban Métis Federation, Inc. (CUMFI) reached that goal Thursday by announcing the grand opening of the Round Prairie Elders’ Lodge, a new 26-unit residence for Métis elders located at 412 Avenue P South. The 25,881 square-foot space will provide culturally appropriate housing that is safe, affordable, and accessible.

“We are very excited to have the Round Prairie Elders Lodge opening in the Pleasant Hill neighborhood,” CUMFI president Shirley Isbister said in a news release. “It’s been two decades in the making and our elders finally have a place to call home. For years we have seen our elders struggle and make decisions between rent and other essentials such as medicine or food. CUMFI is proud to help in this small way to overcome these issues and we will continue to work for our elders and people. By working collaboratively with Métis Nation–Saskatchewan, federal, provincial and municipal governments, this lodge is now a reality.”

Isbister has long known the struggles faced by many Métis elders. The Round Prairie Elders’ Lodge aims to provide an opportunity to address challenges such as isolation, lack of cultural supports, and safety with its many shared spaces. An outdoor area hosts a fire pit, raised planters with traditional medicinal plants, and gathering area.

The Métis Nation–Saskatchewan Ministry of Housing contributed $1.5 million, via funding from the Canada-Métis Nation Housing sub-accord, to the project. The support went toward the land purchase and a deposit on modular units.

“This project exemplifies the success we can achieve through partnerships,” Métis Nation–Saskatchewan president Glen McCAullum said in a news release.  “The Métis Nation–Saskatchewan funding is one example of our Métis government’s commitment to increase housing capacity and stimulate the economy across the province. We are pleased to be involved in such a well-rounded, culturally appropriate housing project dedicated to our elders. The Round Prairie Elders’ Lodge allows our elders to relax in comfort as they so deserve.”

Indigenous Services Canada contributed $2,293,077, the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation chipped in $683,845, Saskatchewan Housing Corporation added $632,845 and the City of Saskatoon contributed $178,437 to complete the funding.