File photo of 'Oki' sign outside of Lethbridge City Hall. (Lethbridge News Now)

By Justin Goulet

Well-being in focus as part of proposed Indigenous Resource Hub in Lethbridge

Dec 16, 2021 | 7:23 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – There could be a centre in downtown Lethbridge dedicated to the well-being of the Indigenous community.

Lethbridge City Council has heard presentations from administration on a centralized resource facility focused on Indigenous well-being. The proposed site would be dedicated to connecting Indigenous people with services “in a way that is culturally relevant and uses traditional knowledge to support community well-being.”

Additionally, the hub would look to support non-Indigenous organizations with designing, developing and delivering social programs and services, including housing, through an Indigenous lens.

Lethbridge mayor Blaine Hyggen said, “as a Council, we remain committed to continuing the positive work being done to further Reconciliation efforts within our city.”

“I look forward to learning more about what opportunities the Indigenous Resource Hub will provide the community and discussing further in the new year.”

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The proposed facility would be located within the currently vacant Bowman Arts Centre. The establishment of the initiative would be funded through previously approved funds from the Community Wellbeing and Safety Strategy and operated by the Blood Tribe/Kainai Nation.

Lethbridge’s Indigenous Relations Advisor Perry Stein said, “Indigenous peoples have always spoken about the power of culture as a pathway to healing and wellness.”

“The Indigenous Resource Hub partnership not only responds to this vital community need, but does so in a way that continues to strengthen the relationship between the City and Kainai Nation.”

Community input and engagement on the hub was completed through various processes, including the Community Wellbeing and Safety Strategy Needs Assessment and the Lethbridge Indigenous Cultural Centre Feasibility Study.

City council will give final discussion on the proposed facility’s operating budget and contract in the new year.