Sarah Komadina

1 month ago | globalnews.ca | Sarah Komadina

The May long weekend is the kickoff to summer for many Albertans itching to get out camping and enjoying the outdoors, but it comes at a precarious time in the province's wildfire season. This time of year, many fires are started by human activities such as campfires, burning deadfall, sparks and hot exhaust from ATVs and other off-road vehicles, cigarette butts and agriculture activity.

1 month ago | globalnews.ca | Sarah Komadina

A week ago, Priscella Swampy was picking out material with her granddaughter Jerzeigh Swampy to make a jingle dress. Jerzeigh was drawn to hot pink and rainbow ribbons. Priscella put the materials on the table, with plans to sew the piece together, but that never happened. Instead, the kokum used the material to make a tea dress for her 14-year-old granddaughter’s wake. “I felt honoured to do it,” Swampy said. On Saturday, May 3rd at 11 p.m., Jerzeigh was with her friend, Cowin Twins.

Jan 11, 2024 | globalnews.ca | Sarah Komadina

Greg Gladue was homeless for more than 15 years. He would sometimes have enough money to stay at a cheap motel, but would more often than not spent his nights in a sleeping bag somewhere in Edmonton’s river valley. “I am getting old… The older you get the harder it is to live on the streets, because it takes a lot of energy out of you. You’re always on your feet — hungry and cold,” Gladue said.

Jan 8, 2024 | globalnews.ca | Sarah Komadina

At the encampment on 95 Street and Rowland Road in Edmonton, Roy Cardinal is known as the caretaker. He has made his tent into a small teepee. Inside, he has small propane fireplace, beds and blankets. He has made it as comfortable as possible. “It’s a tight squeeze, but it’s the warmest place in the house,” Cardinal said. “I sit here, and I give them coffee, all the donations and everything we get, I always keep it in here.”Cardinal puts his focus on helping people recover from addictions.

Dec 23, 2023 | globalnews.ca | Sarah Komadina

EDITOR’S NOTE: Global News has agreed to replace the names of some people interviewed for this article to protect their identity in accordance with the treatment centre’s policies. The Poundmaker’s Lodge Treatment Centres have been helping people recover from addictions for 50 years. The treatment facility focuses on using Indigenous culture to help people heal. There are several programs people who are struggling can take, including services specifically for women and for youth.