Tribal Chief Mark Arcand of the Saskatoon Tribal Council says staff at the STC Wellness Centre have been hearing good reviews from the clients that use their service. Arcand calls the clients relatives. The staff have told him that those who have used the Centre consider it a safe place for them, which is something they haven’t felt for a long time.

The Wellness Centre invites people in from the streets and not only gives them a place to stay, but steers them towards supports for mental health, addictions, employment and housing. Arcand adds that adding cultural services is integral to what they do. He gives the example of trying to find ways to help with de-escalation when needed. There is a drummer on site, who when needed, will begin drumming and singing, which calms people down.

The Wellness Centre has been open for about a month and a half now, and Arcand says they have been over capacity since they opened the door, so the service is definitely needed in the community. Arcand thanks the public for the donations that have been coming in from individuals, businesses and organizations. Over Christmas, a pizza place donated 100 pizzas, a dentist office gave boxes of toothpaste and toothbrushes, and some people have been donating clothing and baked goods.