Miyoskamin – A Cree word meaning “spring” or “groundbreaking.”
Miyoskamin Second Stage Housing Program
As a second stage housing project of the Native Women’s Shelter of Montreal - we are a transitional housing program that provides affordable, accessible, and safe housing to Indigenous women and their children in the greater Montreal area.
The Miyoskamin Second Stage Housing program is currently accepting applications. To learn about the program and request an application, please email info@miyoskamin.com
For over a year, Miyoskamin has been a sanctuary of support and empowerment for Indigenous women and their children in Montreal. This second-stage housing program is a critical extension of the Native Women’s Shelter of Montreal’s mission, addressing the challenges that women and families face as they transition to independent living.
Located at 757 rue des Seigneurs, Montreal, Quebec, Miyoskamin provides a stable and supportive environment where healing, growth, and rebuilding lives can flourish.
A Legacy of Service
For over 25 years, the Native Women’s Shelter of Montreal (NWSM) has been a safe haven for Indigenous women and their children, offering culturally grounded, holistic care. Yet, we observed a significant gap in services for women who had completed their stay but continued to face systemic barriers such as housing discrimination, language challenges, limited education or employment opportunities, and the lingering effects of intergenerational trauma.
Miyoskamin was created to bridge that gap. Built in partnership with Batir son Quartier and funded through private, provincial, and municipal support, this project is a testament to the collective commitment to healing and empowerment for Indigenous women and families.
Addressing Systemic Inequalities
The 2019 Public Inquiry Commission on Relations between Indigenous Peoples and Certain Public Services in Québec (the Viens Commission) highlighted the systemic barriers that Indigenous communities face in areas like justice, health, social services, and youth protection. These challenges, rooted in a history of colonial trauma—including residential schools, the Sixties Scoop, and ongoing systemic racism—have left a profound impact on Indigenous families.
Miyoskamin responds to this history by providing long-term, culturally affirming solutions to help Indigenous women and children rebuild their lives and strengthen their communities.
A Year of Empowerment and Support
Since its opening, Miyoskamin has been home to 23 supportive housing units, including spaces for single women and family units for mothers and their children. With its prime downtown location, residents benefit from proximity to essential resources and services, making their journey toward independence more accessible and sustainable.
Programs and Resources
Miyoskamin’s holistic approach offers a variety of supportive resources designed to meet the unique needs of its residents, including:
Community social pediatrics centre “Saralikitaaq” – Supporting the health and well-being of children.
Group workshops – Facilitating peer connection and skill-building.
Access to legal services – Empowering residents to navigate complex systems.
Individual sessions with professionals – Providing personalized support for mental health, employment, and other needs.
A Vision for the Future
Miyoskamin is not just a housing program—it’s a place of renewal, a step forward for Indigenous women and children to heal, grow, and thrive. As we reflect on our first year of operation, we remain committed to building a future rooted in resilience, justice, and empowerment for all those we serve.
For inquiries about Miyoskamin or to learn how you can support its continued success, please contact info@miyoskamin.com or visit our website.
