MKO’s Wellbriety Centre was created through the vision of the Northern Chiefs, offering a safe and culturally grounded space for relatives living with addiction and those in need of shelter and belonging. The centre serves as a hub, offering social supports, health care and treatment in a culturally respectful way.

WHY WE ARE DIFFERENT
1.Addictions Counselling
2.Trauma-Focused Therapy
3.MKO Traditional Healer Program Healing Space
4.On-Site Health Clinic
5.Social Supports
6.Elder-Led Cultural Activities
7.Language Services

The Wellbriety Centre is currently operating out of one of three buildings on the site, but MKO’s vision extends much further. Guided by First Nation values of love, respect, and compassion. MKO envisions building a “village” where relatives, many of whom are dealing with the impacts of colonialism and systemic barriers that have contributed to homelessness, addictions, and mental health challenges, can find holistic support as they journey on their paths of healing. This community-focused vision emphasizes connection, belonging, and wrap-around care, recognizing that every individual deserves a safe and supportive environment as they transition and heal.

MKO continues to assess the needs of relatives, particularly First Nations citizens from the MKO region, who require additional support to navigate and transition into Thompson, especially given the lack of transitional housing and supports that are available in other urban centres. In response, MKO is currently renovating one of the Polaris buildings to create transitional housing and will work to build capacity within the City of Thompson to ensure the necessary supports and resources are available to our relatives. Evidence shows that with wraparound care, individuals are more likely to achieve their goals and experience a greater sense of security and connection to the community.

The success of the Wellbriety Centre is rooted in strong collaboration with local organizations, MKO programs, and community partners:

• City of Thompson: Provides the facility, covers utilities, and supports maintenance. Community Safety Officers collaborate with Wellbriety staff for outreach to encampments.
• Reaching Home Manitoba: Funding for hygiene items, clothing, land-based activities, and art supplies.
• Training and Health Partners: Canadian Mental Health Association and Eaglewood offer ongoing training/workshops for staff and residents. Shared Health provides monthly “Tea and Bannock” STBBI testing and quarterly TB clinics. Manitoba Harm Reduction Network and Workplace Education Manitoba deliver education and job skills programs.
• Medical and Social Supports: Clarke’s Pharmacy offers medication management, immunization clinics, and health education. Thompson General Hospital supports social work and discharge planning. Keewatinohk Inniniw Minoayawin (KIM) supports the Managed Alcohol Program and operates a primary care clinic and counseling services on-site.
• Community Organizations and Donors: MAPS (Men and Boys are Part of the Solution), Thompson Baptist Church, Thompson Neighbourhood Renewal Centre, R.A. Distributors, Vale, Sysco, MB Harvest, Women and Gender Equity Canada, and ET Blades all contribute vital resources, food, clothing, and program support.

For more information, please contact [email protected]