Okimaw Ohci Healing Lodge – A path to healing, growth and new beginnings
The Okimaw Ohci Healing Lodge (OOHL) supports rehabilitation and healing for federally sentenced women in the custody of the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC). Located on the Nekaneet First Nation near Maple Creek, Saskatchewan, OOHL was created with guidance from Elders and follows a holistic approach to healing. It is based on the 5 principles of the Creating Choices report:
- Empowerment
- Meaningful and Responsible Choices
- Respect and Dignity
- Supportive Environment
- Shared Responsibility
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Land acknowledgement
The land on which Okimaw Ohci Healing Lodge is situated belongs to Nekaneet First Nation. Treaty 4 territory is the original lands of the Cree, Ojibwe, Saulteaux, Dakota, Nakota and Lakota, and the homeland of the Métis Nation.
A unique environment for federally sentenced women
OOHL provides:
- a unique, culturally grounded environment
- Elder-led teachings and ceremonies
- educational, vocational, correctional, and social programs
- support to maintain a commitment to Indigenous healing plans and reintegration opportunities
- an environment that provides trauma-informed rehabilitation, in a calm and natural setting
- a Mother-Child Program
- CORCAN employability and construction program
Okimaw Ohci Healing Lodge
Facility description
OOHL is a standalone multi-level facility with residential-style housing for 60 women at minimum or medium security levels. The main focal point is the large Spiritual Lodge, where teachings, ceremonies, and workshops with Elders and spiritual advisors take place. OOHL also has:
- on-site intake assessments
- virtual visitation, in-person visitation, and a private family visit unit
- on-site health services and traditional healers and medicines
- on-site sweat lodge
Aerial view of Okimaw Ohci Healing Lodge
Four Seasonal Horse Program
CSC provides the Four Seasonal Horse Program to the residents using the traditional teachings of the Nekaneet First Nation. The program reconnects women with creation through sacred teachings and ceremonies. Key aspects include:
- culturally structured teachings and ceremonies
- emphasis on kinship and family connections
- specialized support for women with acute or complex needs
- a spiritual approach to addressing health and well-being