The Blood Tribe Department of Health is the new operator of the Lethbridge Shelter and Stabilization Centre, file photo. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

Blood Tribe Department of Health takes over operation of Lethbridge homeless shelter

Jan 8, 2023 | 3:55 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – There is a new operator at the Lethbridge Shelter and Stabilization Centre.

January 3, 2023, was the last day in which Alpha House ran the shelter.

Alpha House said in a social media post, “That’s a wrap. We are sad to have reached our final day as service provider of the Lethbridge Shelter and Stabilization Centre. The clients accessing services are incredibly resilient individuals and we consider it a privilege to have been able to meet, learn from, and provide client care for them these past 3 years.”

The now-former shelter operator says the path to improving the circumstances of those experiencing homelessness is a difficult one but one that is incredibly important.

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In Alpha House’s place, the Blood Tribe Department of Health (BTDH) has assumed command of the facility.

In an interview with LNN in November 2022, BTDH Chair Charles Weaselhead said the majority of clients at the shelter are Indigenous and he wanted to put a greater focus on Indigenous programming and services. However, he assured that people of all backgrounds would receive a high level of care.

Weaselhead also previously stated he knows “the challenge is going to be there, but fortunately, we have experience from the City of Lethbridge and individuals who have worked there before.”

LNN has reached out to the BTDH for additional comments.

Alpha House wished the BTDH success as they step into their new role as service provider.

READ MORE: Partnership to address health and social challenges in Lethbridge and Blood Tribe First Nation