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Evacuee Support for Pimicikamak Cree Nation


Backpacks being delivered to the Cross Lake Exchange Office by Kim Kulbacki (Middle) and Jackie Anderson (Right) (February 23, 2026)
Jeremy Pelletier (Left) and Alcide Cloutier (Right) loading up the truck to deliver backpacks (February 23, 2026)
Backpacks filled with school supplies and activity books for Cross Lake youth
Zaagi’idiwin X Agoojin Sport Camp for Cross Lake youth Sponsored by Ka Ni Kanichihk (January 20, 2026)
Heart Helpers hired for on-site support at evacuee hotels (January 12, 2026)

January 2026-Current

In early January, members of Cross Lake Pimicikamak First Nation were forced to evacuate their homes following a major power failure in their community. Since then, our relatives have been staying in 13 hotels across Winnipeg, remaining away from home while repairs are underway. Although work continues to restore the hydro service, it may take up to four months before the community is fully powered again.

Ka Ni Kanichihk stepped up early to support our Cross Lake relatives during this challenging time. To provide consistent care and assistance, more than 20 Heart Helpers were hired to offer on-site support at hotels. Heart Helpers are available to our relatives 7 days a week, along with a support line people can call for short-term child minding to attend appointments or take wellness time.

When asked why she felt it was important to step up for our evacuated relatives, Jackie Anderson, Ka Ni Kanichihk Executive Director, shared: “Regardless if our relatives are living in the city or in rural areas, they need to be taken care of. Our elders especially, leaving their communities and coming to the urban city can be very scary and intimidating for them, so we really wanted them to feel safe”.

At our 455 McDermot Avenue location, we have hosted regular gatherings to foster connection and care, including weekly Elder support activities, a movie and pizza night, and Cedar foot baths for those who were evacuated. Traditional food is prepared at 455 McDermot during many of these activities, and extras are brought to the hotel sites.

“We always hand the food out to people, and they are always so grateful to have a little taste of home,” says Jackie Anderson, Executive Director.

Ka Ni Kanichihk also organized the collection of clothing, games, and essential items to help ensure families were as comfortable as possible during their stay. On February 23rd, 2026, Ka Ni Kanichihk staff delivered 400 backpacks to the children of Cross Lake filled with school supplies, books, and activities.

Creating opportunities for connection and recreation has also been a priority. Families have gone on outings to the Zoo and The Leaf at Assiniboine Park, bowling, and many more. Youth also participated in a basketball and volleyball camp delivered in partnership with Zaagi’idiwin Sport Performance and Agoojin Volleyball. After the camp, families were invited to attend Wesmen basketball games at the University of Winnipeg, where they shared food and enjoyed the games together.

We will continue supporting our relatives in any way we can until they are able to return home.