FORT MCMURRAY — A new 31-unit Indigenous-led supportive housing program has officially opened in Fort McMurray, providing permanent housing and integrated services for people experiencing chronic homelessness.
The Wood Buffalo Wellness Society celebrated the grand opening of Tawâw, a Permanent Supportive Housing program for people experiencing chronic homelessness and complex barriers to independent living.
Tawâw is a Cree word meaning, “Come in, you are welcome, there is room for you here.”
The program is Indigenous-led but open to people from all backgrounds. It combines stable housing with recovery-oriented and trauma-informed supports intended to improve residents’ health, wellness and quality of life.
Residents can receive individualized case management, healthcare co-ordination, mental health and addiction services, life-skills development and connections to community resources. Cultural opportunities are also incorporated into the program.
Tawâw also provides on-site nursing and clinical supports to help residents access healthcare, manage chronic health conditions and navigate healthcare and other services.
The Wood Buffalo Wellness Society says combining housing, healthcare and other supports is intended to help residents maintain stable housing and strengthen their independence while reducing reliance on emergency, health and justice systems.
The program works with healthcare providers, community organizations and government-funded services to provide additional supports.
McMurray Métis marked the opening by describing Tawâw as an important addition to the community and a pathway toward greater stability and healing.
The organization says it supported the development of Tawâw and plans to continue supporting the program and the people it serves.
McMurray Métis also credited the vision, leadership, partnerships and work involved in bringing the project to completion.
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