New Cree Nations Miyoyawin Centre enhances access to culturally supportive services

AHTAHKAKOOP CREE NATION, TREATY 6 TERRITORY, SK, Oct. 26, 2026 /CNW/ — On October 22, 2026, Chief Larry Ahenakew, Chief Jonathan Bear, Chief Romeo Thomas, and Chief Raymon Harris, alongside community leaders, Elders and partners, marked the completion of the new Cree Nations Miyoyawin Centre on Ahtahkakoop Cree Nation.

Replacing the original facility built in 1988, the new centre provides a modern, safe, and welcoming environment for First Nations people accessing residential treatment and healing services in north-central Saskatchewan. The facility improves safety and security while supporting the delivery of culturally appropriate residential treatment and healing services for First Nations people experiencing substance use challenges.

Indigenous Services Canada invested $29.3 million in the project, in partnership with Ahtahkakoop Cree Nation. The First Nation contributed an additional $1.8 million toward dedicated detoxification space, which is expected to become operational in the near future.

The centre is governed by a Board of Directors representing Ahtahkakoop Cree Nation, Big River First Nation, Pelican Lake First Nation, and Witchekan Lake First Nation. It delivers residential treatment services through ISC’s National Native Alcohol and Drug Abuse Program treatment network.

Quotes

“We believe every person deserves the opportunity to find strength, work toward wellness and build a healthier future. The Cree Nations Miyoyawin Centre welcomes everyone who comes here seeking support, healing and a new beginning. We are honoured to support a place where individuals can focus on their healing, reconnect with themselves and their families, and take positive steps forward. We aim to give people a healthy head start in life and create hope for strong, healthy families and communities.”

Chief Larry Ahenakew

Chief, Ahtahkakoop Cree Nation

“The new Cree Nations Miyoyawin Centre represents an important investment in culturally appropriate services that support the health and well-being of First Nations communities. We are very proud of the work Ahtahkakoop, Big River, Pelican Lake, and Witchekan Lake First Nations have done to provide a modern, safe and welcoming space for individuals seeking treatment and healing.”

The Honourable Mandy Gull-Masty

Minister of Indigenous Services

“Strong communities begin with people having the support and resources they need to live healthy and fulfilling lives. The Cree Nations Miyoyawin Centre shows what’s possible when we invest in Indigenous-led solutions that support healing, strengthen families, and lay the foundation for healthier communities for generations to come.”

The Honourable Buckley Belanger

Secretary of State for Rural Development

Quick facts

• The Cree Nations Miyoyawin Centre is located on Ahtahkakoop Cree Nation in north-central Saskatchewan and serves First Nations communities in the region, supporting access to culturally appropriate healing and treatment services.
• Since its origins in the 1970s, the National Native Alcohol and Drug Abuse Program has supported First Nations and Inuit communities in establishing and operating programs to reduce substance use among on-reserve populations.
• Ahtahkakoop Cree Nation is located between 50 and 350 km from the nearest service centres, with year-round road access.

Associated links

• Cree Nations Treatment Haven (https://www.creenationstreatmenthaven.ca)

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SOURCE Indigenous Services Canada