Nahanni Fontaine speaks in the house during question and answer period at the Legislative Building on Wednesday, May 20, 2020. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ruth Bonneville – POOL)
The Manitoba government is investing $500,000 to establish Franny’s Place, a 24/7 safe house in Brandon for Indigenous women, two-spirit, and gender-diverse individuals at risk.
The facility offers 10 bedrooms, communal spaces, and culturally rooted programs, supported by staff and the volunteer group Keegawegeein. Services include drop-in support and intake for those awaiting safe placements.
Residents will be able to engage in positive activities based on their interests including beading, cooking, baking, painting, growing plants, playing bingo and woodworking.
Families Minister Nahanni Fontaine says the space will provide the safety, security and peace needed to help residents on their path of healing and recovery.
The initiative aligns with Manitoba’s $20-million Mino’Ayaawag Ikwewag strategy to promote housing and safety for at-risk groups, reinforcing its commitment during the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
