Tribes Homeless Shelter Seeks Resources
Approximately 15 people were staying at the Fort Peck Tribes’ homeless shelter at 109 East Dawson Street in Wolf Point as of March 7, officially pushing the facility into maximum capacity.
Residents spoke with the Northern Plains Independent at the shelter site across from the Roosevelt County Detention Center on Wolf Point’s south side. Residents expressed gratitude for the available shelter, but said they lack basic essentials, money for transportation and cots for mattresses and bedding.
Sofia Anderson, a resident who does much of the cooking, said she moved to the shelter because she was living in a camper without power or heat. She said chores are shared and residents police their own behavior, holding each other accountable.
“We’re the kind that doesn’t put up with nothing,” said Anderson.
She said behavior problems can cause those who act up to be banned from the facility.
Ernest Comes Last, 65, said he ended up homeless before Christmas when he fell down some stairs and broke his leg. He said he has ongoing medical treatments and appointments, but can’t make the trip as often as he needs to because there is no vehicle for use by residents of the shelter.
Frances Weeks and long-time friend Tracey Rider are administering the facility. Weeks said efforts are ad-hoc, but described the environment as warm and safe. She confirmed that additional resources are needed.
“We’re trying to make it a place where people can look forward,” said Weeks.
Following the recent removal of shelters from land near the Sherman Inn in Wolf Point, options for area homeless have become even more limited.
Mary Cleland, who owns the land where the shelters were located, said she requested that Erik Johannessen remove the structures after several individuals expressed fear for their safety at the site.
“I had met with the homeless people there,” Cleland said. “They talked about crimes being committed there and said people were afraid of being robbed and beaten.”
Cleland said she was pleased to see efforts from tribal government to support the area’s homeless population with a shelter facility.
“As an elder, I’m very grateful the Tribes are doing something,” Cleland said.
Residents at the tribes’ shelter said they are in need of the following essential items and goods: bedding and cots, blankets, sheets, clothing (especially socks and underwear), and toiletries. As mentioned, residents also expressed a need for help with transportation and access to basic medical care. Foodstuffs are always welcome.
For more information, call 406-478-9378 or stop by the facility.
