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MIKE DEAL / FREE PRESS Kim Fontaine, executive director, Ikwe Widdjiitiwin Inc., speaks during the announcement. Families Minister Nahanni Fontaine, minister responsible for women and gender equity announces that the Manitoba government will providing $3.5 million to Ikwe Widdjiitiwin Inc. to establish a first-of-its-kind 24-7 safe space for Indigenous women in Winnipeg. The announcement took place at the future home of Mino’Ayaawag Ikwewag Lodge, 510 Selkirk Avenue. The lodge will provide immediate, short-term safety and stabilization for Indigenous women at risk of violence, homelessness or exploitation. It will provide low-barrier access to culturally safe crisis support. Reporter: Tyler Searle 251002 - Thursday, October 02, 2025.