The History of Waseskun

Waseskun House was founded in 1988, originally located in the Pointe-Saint-Charles neighbourhood of Montreal. It began as a halfway house for Indigenous men reintegrating into society between 1988 and 1992. Just two days before the official opening, a major fire broke out in the building. Thanks to a swift and collective effort, repairs were completed in time. The inauguration was marked by a powerful moment: a performance by a world-renowned Indigenous dance troupe from Alberta, stopping in Montreal before their European tour.

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In 1992, Waseskun moved to the Saint-Henri district of Montreal, where it remained until 1999. This period was defined by innovative programs aimed at promoting autonomy and employability among residents.

Between 1996 and 1998, the Waseskun Movers initiative was launched to provide temporary, meaningful employment opportunities for men in transition, supported by Aboriginal Business Canada.

In 1997, Waseskun launched the Waseskun Network, a pioneering online communication platform for the time. This network connected a variety of corporate and institutional partners, including Air Creebec, Cree Construction, the Royal Bank of Canada, Hydro-Québec, Imperial Tobacco, and Metro. Through this platform, Waseskun fostered strong relationships with both Indigenous and non-Indigenous organizations in a spirit of collaboration.

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A major turning point came in September 1998, when Waseskun acquired a property in Saint-Alphonse-Rodriguez, a natural setting aligned with its growing emphasis on land-based healing, culture, and spirituality. The centre officially relocated there in February 1999.

A few months later, in June 1999, the new site hosted a large spiritual gathering. Over 600 people—Elders, families, partners, and members of various communities—came together for a full week of sharing, ceremony, and reflection. The gathering helped lay the foundation for what would become the Waseskun Healing Centre.

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In 2001, Waseskun’s national role was further solidified when it hosted a training session for around thirty Indigenous Liaison Officers from the Correctional Service of Canada (then known as OLI).

That same year marked another milestone: the signing of the first Section 81 agreement under the Corrections and Conditional Release Act. This formalized Waseskun’s status as a recognized Indigenous healing lodge authorized to receive federally sentenced individuals.

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Since then, Waseskun has continued to grow and deepen its holistic approach. The Lodge now combines spiritual healing, therapeutic support, community reintegration, and cultural revitalization. It has become a place of deep transformation for the men who stay there—and a respected model of Indigenous justice and healing across Canada.