Co-op Community Spaces $150,000 recipient

The Daywalker Home Fire Family Centre’s Co-op Community Walking & Healing Pathway on Okanese First Nation is one of 14 initiatives selected to share in $1 million in funding through Co-op Community Spaces for 2025. The project has been awarded $150,000 in support.

This project represents the ongoing efforts of the Okanese First Nation as they continue the path toward healing, reconciliation, and community building within their reserve. “The Walking and Healing Path is a reflection of our Elders’ teaching,” said retired Chief Marie-Anne Daywalker-Pelletier. “It will build a traditional and cultural path for our present and future generations.”

The Pathway will be connected to the existing Daywalker Home Fire Family Centre, serving as the exterior component of the programs for residents, band members, and the surrounding communities.

“Prairie Co-op is proud to support Okanese First Nation through the Co-op Community Spaces program and their visionary Walking and Healing Pathway project. This pathway is more than just a physical space — it is a place for healing, reflection, and connection to land and culture”, said Terry Vanmackelberg, Prairie Co-op General Manager. “We recognize the importance of creating and supporting spaces where Indigenous communities can lead the way in wellness and cultural revitalization. Prairie Co-op is on a journey of truth and reconciliation, and we are committed to building meaningful relationships with Indigenous communities. Supporting initiatives like this is a vital part of that path.”

A cheque presentation occurred on Monday, June 16, 2025, at 1pm at the site of the Co-op Community Walking & Healing Pathway, located at the Daywalker Home Fire Family Centre, Okanese First Nation.

Co-op Community Spaces is designed to help protect, beautify, and improve spaces across Western Canada. Through the program, Co-op has provided $14.5 million to 203 projects since 2015 in three categories: recreation, environmental conservation, and urban agriculture. FCL administers Community Spaces on behalf of more than 160 local Co-ops operating in 600 communities.