COLD LAKE - The City of Cold Lake has thrown its support behind a funding application from the Cold Lake Native Friendship Centre, which seeks to develop a culturally relevant recovery program blending Indigenous healing methods with western recovery models.
At the April 22 regular council meeting, City council discussed and approved the Friendship Centre’s request for a letter of support to accompany its funding application to Alberta Mental Health and Addiction. The centre is requesting $100,000 in startup and licensing funds to formalize and expand its recovery programming.
Mayor Craig Copeland noted the city’s role in backing the application, “They’re asking for a letter of support for a grant that they’re submitting and the administration has done up a nice letter of support.”
According to the administration’s report, the funding would be used to help the Cold Lake Native Friendship Centre implement a program rooted in both clinical and cultural approaches to recovery. The initiative is based on the Kokum’s House Transitional House model, which currently operates in Cold Lake and provides 10 recovery beds for men across northeastern Alberta.
Kokum’s House is known for integrating traditional Indigenous teachings, land-based healing, and peer mentorship to support individuals dealing with addiction. It serves both Indigenous and non-Indigenous men from surrounding communities, including Cold Lake First Nations.
Since March 2024, Kokum’s House has supported 63 men through various stages of recovery and homelessness. Of these, 28 men have secured full-time employment and now live independently. An additional nine men have transitioned to other treatment facilities, eight have returned to their home communities and remain in recovery, while eight are currently living at Kokum’s House working toward employment or waiting for AISH approval. Ten men left before completing the program or were discharged due to substance use, according to council agenda information
A unique element of the Kokum’s House model is its emphasis on community involvement and life skills. All clients are required to volunteer at bingos and at Kokum’s Corner Thrift Store as part of their recovery journey.
The proposed funding would also help onboard and train staff to deliver culturally grounded programming. Elder-guided teachings, land-based activities, and strong community partnerships are all key components of the centre’s plan.
The City’s formal letter of support will now accompany the centre’s grant application to the Government of Alberta.
