The Central Urban Metis Federation, better known as CUMFI has opened a new 26-unit lodge in Saskatoon for Metis Elders.

On Friday, the grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony were held at the new Round Prairie Elders’ Lodge in Pleasant Hill.

President of CUMFI, Shirley Isbister says the facility started welcoming Elders earlier this week and it’s expected all 26 units will be occupied come March 1st. She adds it’s important that the facility is located in the Pleasant Hill neighbourhood.

“Even back 20 years ago when we (CUMFI) first started purchasing buildings and working in this community, we all said we need to keep everything in the core area, because you can’t make change if you leave it.”

Metis-Nation Saskatchewan contributed $1.5 million dollars to the project through the Regional Housing Strategy, with funding from the Canada-Metis Nation Housing Sub-Accord. That money went to purchasing the land for the lodge and to put a deposit on the modular units.

All 26 modular units were craned in and placed over a course of one-day thanks to Big Block Construction. Construction on the $7 million dollar facility started in April and some finishing touches are still needed as supplies have been delayed due to supply chain shortages and the recent floods in BC.

“We have a kitchen, and so if someone’s family wants to come, they can bring food or make food in there and celebrate together.” says Isbister.

She adds that she has been dreaming of establishing such a facility for 20 years.

The plan is to open up the gathering room to the community from time-to-time to host meals, cultural and social activities and to provide teaching opportunities. CUMFI will deliver all of the proper supports needed by the Elders at the lodge.

The new facility located on Avenue P. South will provide culturally appropriate housing that’s safe, affordable and accessible.