Indigenous-led shelter site to be located at London’s Parkwood Institute: Atlohsa
Global News
An Indigenous-led temporary shelter site, part of the city's Winter Response Plan, will be located on Parkwood Institute grounds in south London, backing onto Westminster Ponds.
Officials with Atlohsa Family Healing Services have announced a new location for their planned Indigenous-led temporary shelter site, in partnership with the city and St. Joseph’s Health Care London.
The shelter, part of the city’s Winter Response Plan, will be located on the grounds of Parkwood Institute in south London, with land backing onto Westminster Ponds, the agency said in a statement on Tuesday.
In a statement, Raymond Deleary, Atlohsa’s executive director, said the agency is excited to offer “an Indigenous-led winter response in a safe location that meets the needs of our community members and staff,” noting the development stems from their Atlohsa and SJHCL’s prior partnership with the Biigajiiskaan Indigenous Pathways to Mental Wellness program.
“We have been overwhelmed with positive community response following the fire at River Road, and we extend our gratitude to those who have reached out with offers of support. Prior to colonization, there was a place in our communities for everyone,” he added.
“The support we have received from St. Joseph’s and the wider London community reminds us of our shared values of kindness, respect and inclusivity.”
Just over two weeks ago, a fire tore through the clubhouse of the former city-owned River Road Golf Course on Nov. 7, causing roughly $1 million in damages. The fire came just days after it was announced the location was proposed as the site of a shelter serving up to 30 Indigenous people experiencing homelessness.
“The loss of River Road Golf Course as an option for an Indigenous-led temporary shelter was very difficult. The generosity of St. Joseph’s Health Care London and the hard work and dedication of Atlohsa Family Healing Services have made it possible to quickly secure a new and appropriate location to meet an urgent need in this community,” said Kevin Dickins, deputy city manager of social and health development.
“The Indigenous-led temporary shelter site is a critical part of our winter response. We will continue to work closely with Atlohsa, and are committed to supporting them as they deliver this important service this winter.”