Our hearts go out to our neighbours in James Smith Cree Nation and Weldon. As our first step to show our support to the victims and families, we are donating supplies requested and collected by local community centres. These supplies will be delivered for upcoming wakes, funerals and community gatherings. It is our hope that these donated items help ease the financial burden of the families who are planning the gatherings during this difficult time. We will continue to watch for meaningful opportunities to support the grieving families and communities as they navigate through their healing journey.

We encourage those who are able to consider showing your support by donating supplies that have been requested such as paper plates, napkins, utensils, paper towels, Kleenex, hand soap, bottled water, potatoes, carrots, dry noodles, salt and pepper, coffee, powdered cream, sugar cubes, stir sticks, tea, cups, juice drinks and individually wrapped snack items.

Donations can be dropped off at one of the following community centres across Saskatchewan who will be delivering the supplies to James Smith Cree Nation this weekend:

• Bernard Constant Community School gymnasium on the James Smith Cree Nation

• Bernice Sayese Centre in Prince Albert

• Nēwo Yōtina Friendship Centre in Regina

• White Buffalo Youth Lodge in Saskatoon

In addition, a gathering for all faiths will be hosted this Friday, September 9 at 12:00 p.m. at First Nations University, University of Regina, Luther College and Campion College.

If you or someone you know needs someone to talk to, the following local support lines are available:

Hope for Wellness Helpline
1-855-242-3310

Available to all Indigenous peoples across Canada. This helpline provides 24 hours a day, seven days a week service by phone or online chat to those in need. Services are available in English, French, Cree, Ojibway and Inuktitut.

Prince Albert and Area Mental Health and Addictions Centralized Intake
306-765-6055 / 1-888-765-6055

North East SK (Melfort – Nipawin – Rosthern – Tisdale – Area) Mental Health and Addictions Centralized Intake
1-833-274-4060

North-East 24-Hour Crisis Line (Melfort)
306-752-9455 / 1-800-611-6349

Wellness Together Canada
1-866-0445 or text WELLNESS to 686868 for youth or 741741 for adults. This service is free and confidential.