COLD LAKE - Since July 1, 2015, Kokum's House has stood as a beacon of hope and support in Cold Lake, offering temporary refuge for individuals seeking help during challenging times. Originally designed as a sanctuary for men awaiting work, housing, or seeking a new path in life, the house evolved into an inclusive space, embracing men in need and supporting a culture of sober living and communal responsibility.
On March 14, 2020, a devastating event shook the foundation of the Kokum’s House men’s home. Deliberately set ablaze by an individual staying there, the act of arson resulted in the house being heavily damaged, according to the Cold Lake Native Friendship Centre.
In October 2022, the City of Cold Lake demonstrated support by designating city-owned land located at 4710 40 Avenue to the Cold Lake Native Friendship Centre, paving the way for the rebuilding of the Kokum’s House shelter program.
Agnes Gendron, executive director of the Cold Lake Native Friendship Society, expressed gratitude, stating, “We were fortunate that the City gave us land and we had a builder that built the house.”
Kokum's house serves not just as a shelter but as a critical ground for transformation. While residents seek refuge, they are also encouraged to engage in daily responsibilities, fostering a sense of purpose and progression.
Gendron highlights the house's impact, stating, “It was a really good house; a lot of the guys got their safety tickets to work at the casino, they went back to work, or they went back to school, some of them went back home to their respective communities.”
Many of the men who resided at Kokum's House have successfully regained stability and embarked on journeys leading them to their desired destinations. Gendron highlighted the progress, saying, “Everything except for the fire was all success stories because we had quite a few men that went through.”
The newly built home opened on Nov. 15 and is available to sober individuals in search of a stable living environment. Gendron conveyed the current aim, expressing, “Right now we are looking for occupancy - men that are sober and clean but need a home.”
For men seeking shelter, they can reach out to Zane Thain, the manager of Kokum's House, by contacting 780-573-3352. Thain will assess whether the necessary criteria for accommodations are met.
