Métis citizens in North Battleford now have a new place to connect with programs, services and support. Métis Nation-Saskatchewan (MN-S) officially opened its new Ma Faamii Centre in North Battleford on Wednesday. The name means “My Family” in Michif. MN-S Vice President Michelle LeClair said the downtown facility will give Métis citizens access to a range of programs, including housing, social assistance, family support and economic development. “It will serve as a hub centre for our citizens to be able to go ask questions, get help when they need it, get support when they need it,” LeClair said. The new centre follows the opening of the first Ma Faamii Centre in Saskatoon in 2023. “We’ve been able to test that one out a little bit and learn from our citizens about what are the actual needs that they need in the community,” LeClair said. North Battleford Mayor Kelli Hawtin said the centre benefits the community by providing services to Métis citizens while also bringing new investment downtown. “This is tremendous for downtown North Battleford. This was three vacant lots for a number of years. So, seeing this type of investment in our downtown brings more positive activity and more support to our community,” Hawtin said. The Ma Faamii Centre’s design draws inspiration from traditional Métis homes. “Inside is centred around a hearth or a fireplace, which is how the old Métis homes were. So, when you come into the space, you are greeted by a large open room with a central fireplace, a kitchen that’s right there. It’s a space for visiting, building kinship,” said Jason Surkan of Situated On Land Office, or SOLO, Architecture. The building features several Métis-inspired elements, including carpet inspired by the Métis sash and a sign featuring details inspired by a Red River cart. As a Métis architect, Surkan said the project holds special meaning for him. “It’s special to be able to help your own people in your own community. Métis people, we haven’t had spaces for ourselves historically, and now we’re finally kind of turning a new leaf and we’re able to have spaces for ourselves,” he said. More Ma Faamii centres are planned across Saskatchewan, including in Yorkton and Beauval, as MN-S expands access to programs and services for Métis citizens in communities across the province.
