Federal funding for James Smith Cree Nation sparks hope for healing, change in wake of mass stabbings
CBC
Darryl Burns was overwhelmed by joy and excitement when he heard the prime minister promise extensive support for James Smith Cree Nation at an announcement on Monday.
It gives him hope for the future in a time of darkness.
"Everyone in Canada, maybe the world, is looking at us because we're a place of grief, we're a place of tragedy, we're a place of suffering," Burns said.
"Maybe we can be the model of recovery."
Millions of dollars has been dedicated to helping community members heal and move forward from the violent stabbing assaults in September.
It also involves initiatives to prevent future violence.
Nearly three months ago, 10 people were killed and 18 others were physically injured on James Smith Cree Nation. One man was also killed in the nearby village of Weldon, Sask.
Police have determined Myles Sanderson did all of the killing. He died shortly after being brought into police custody.
Darryl's sister, Gloria Burns, was killed during the stabbing rampage. She was a community crisis responder who died trying to save other victims.
Since the devastation, Darryl has repeatedly emphasized the need for more support and resources in the community to address addictions, violence and other issues stemming from intergenerational trauma.
After paying respects to the victims and their relatives on Monday, Justin Trudeau announced $42.5 million for James Smith Cree Nation.
Part of the money will be used to build a new wellness centre in the community and repurpose the existing Sakwatamo Lodge, a 42-day residential treatment program for alcohol and drugs.
The federal government said the money will be used to create access to culturally relevant, trauma-informed programming — critical for well-being and recovery.
Some will be used to support James Smith Cree Nation in the development and design of programs tailored for its members.
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