Six months after being relocated to a long-term care facility far from his family, Jimmy Spence remains hopeful that his time as an evacuee is coming to an end. The 85-year-old, along with 20 other individuals, has been residing in a Winnipeg care facility since wildfires necessitated their evacuation from Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation in July 2025.
Despite adapting to the new environment, Spence expresses a longing for his northern home, emphasizing the patience required until the return opportunity arises. The residents, including those with cognitive impairments, were among the evacuees from the community located approximately 660 kilometers northwest of Winnipeg, due to heavy smoke from wildfires engulfing the area.
Initially, the hope was for a brief stay in Winnipeg until the air quality improved, but unforeseen building repairs have prolonged their displacement. However, the repairs are anticipated to conclude within the next six weeks, allowing the residents to return by the end of February, according to Jessie Horodecki, the care home’s executive director.
The necessity for repairs arose from decay compounded by power outages during the wildfires, leading to crucial malfunctions in the building’s systems. The primary focus has been on restoring the damaged floor, vital for safe food handling. Chief Angela Levasseur highlighted the indispensable nature of these repairs for the residents’ well-being.
The seniors’ transition from a close-knit community to an urban setting has been overwhelming, but efforts have been made to create a familiar environment in the Winnipeg facility, including cultural considerations and maintaining routines from Nisichawayasihk. Despite the advantages of improved access to healthcare services, residents like Ann Hall yearn for the comfort of home and reunions with loved ones.
Funding challenges for repairs have been a point of contention, with the responsibility shifting between provincial and federal entities, leaving the residents in limbo. Plans are in motion to facilitate the residents’ return, ensuring their safety and comfort are prioritized throughout the process, with medevacs arranged to transport the most vulnerable individuals.
As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on swiftly completing the repairs and facilitating the residents’ return to their cherished community in Nisichawayasihk.