Here you’ll find the latest updates from Endacho Healing Society including news releases, project news, and updates on the Trauma Healing Lodge.

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Lianne Plamondon Lianne Plamondon

$7 Million for Trauma Healing Lodge

Endacho Healing Society (EHS) recently learned that the federal government has earmarked up to $7 million to help it build an energy efficient healing lodge in the NWT.

March 26, 2025

Endacho Healing Society (EHS) recently learned that the federal government has earmarked up to $7 million to help it build an energy efficient healing lodge in the NWT.

Endacho Healing Society is a not-for-profit society focusing on the mental health and wellness of Indigenous northerners. Roy and Jean Erasmus are the mental health counsellors who formed the society to help move toward their vision of a healing lodge by and for Indigenous people in the NWT.

 Jean and Roy have been working since 2022 to establishing a trauma healing lodge in the NWT in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s call to action # 21.

 “Our vision is a future where Indigenous northerners have good health and wellbeing and have a strong cultural identity. We want them to live in resilient, supportive and healthy communities,” notes Jean Erasmus, Vice Chair of Endacho Healing Society.

 “We know that in order to get there, we need a trauma healing lodge that is rooted in Indigenous culture and uses both Indigenous and western approaches to healing.”

 To date, EHS has completed a feasibility study and business plan and is currently creating a healing program with the help and advice of Indigenous Elders. The healing program will be tested in pilot projects this summer.

 “Throughout our work to make the healing lodge a reality, we have taken guidance from Indigenous Elders. We have consulted with Indigenous people and governments, and we have received support from territorial and federal governments. We know that we will only succeed when we work in partnership with those who share our vision,” says Roy Erasmus, Chairman of Endacho Healing Society.

 “That is why we are so pleased to know that the Government of Canada has committed funds towards our healing lodge. ”

 When the lodge opens, it will have up to 24 people at a time in 6-8 week programs and people will have to be sober for at least 35 days to be eligible to participate.

 
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