In 2026, Esquao, the Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women, will open Marggo’s Place—emergency housing dedicated to First Nation, Métis, and Inuit women. This facility is the first of its kind in Edmonton, exclusively dedicated to providing much-needed comfort and support to First Nation, Métis, and Inuit women at risk of experiencing homelessness.
The vision of this new emergency housing unit is to provide support and programming that is developed by, and for, Alberta’s Indigenous women. Since the very beginning, Esquao has been committed to building strong, safe, and healthy communities by providing culturally-safe spaces for Indigenous women from all walks of life.
According to research undertaken in 2024 by Esquao, Indigenous women and 2Spirit+ people remain at high risk of experiencing homelessness without targeted support. Twenty per cent reported family violence as a main circumstance that led to housing insecurity.
About Marggo
Marggo Pariseau was born in 1952 in High Prairie, Alberta to a Métis mother and French father, which allowed her to walk in both cultures. She arrived in Edmonton at the age of 14, running away from poverty and a world filled with addictions. Like many Aboriginal girls, she was full of hope and big dreams. With the support of a dedicated Elder, Clara Woodbridge, she was able to find safe lodging and employment.
“Over 50 years ago, a Guardian Angel helped me when I was 14 and alone in a new city. That small act of kindness saved my life.” said Marggo Pariseau.
Marggo lived and overcame many obstacles, such as mental health and physical abuse. Her life was nothing you’d read in a storybook. She had four children, Benny, Bernadette, Jamal and Lila; who gave her eight grandchildren and six great grandchildren.
Marggo also started the Firekeepers program at Esquao which focuses on addressing addictive behaviours through cultural understanding and ceremony. The program provides a safe space for Indigenous women to share their stories, learn traditional ways of healing, and experience the support of their peers and Elders. Through FireKeepers, Marggo transformed and changed the trajectory for many women in Alberta.
“These women have been traumatized so much, but they need to remember the good, too,” said Marggo. “I love these women like they were my younger sisters. My heart is big, I know that.”
She was the “heart” behind the Housing Diversion Program at Esquao, assisting Indigenous women making the transition into the community. Marggo believed that the women needed a variety of supports, however if they were fortunate to find one or two people that truly believed in them, it would make a huge difference.
Marggo served as Vice President of Esquao and, together with her close friend Muriel Stanley Venne, CM, AOE, BA (Hon.), founded the Esquao Awards in 1995. The Awards are a community recognition ceremony to celebrate the accomplishments of exceptional First Nation, Métis, and Inuit women in Alberta, and has grown to be the single largest recognition event of Indigenous women in Canada.
About Marggo’s Place
Before her passing, Marggo was able to share her thoughts and insights, based on her lived experience, on what key features should be offered in the new emergency housing being created by Esquao. Marggo supported Indigenous women for over 45 years in various capacities, and was the manager for over 20 years at the Women’s Emergency Accommodation Centre before joining Esquao. This new housing unit and its mission will honour Marggo’s contributions to Esquao and to all First Nation, Métis, and Inuit women across Alberta.
Guided by Teachings
“Marggo was a mentor, kokum, and aunty by tradition. Her gentle guidance was not just offered—it was lived,” said Esquao President Lisa D. Weber, KC. “It is my hope that the next generation of Indigenous women leaders are guided by Marggo’s teachings.”
Accessing the Shelter
Marggo’s place will welcome First Nation, Métis, and Inuit women at risk of experiencing homelessness in Edmonton.
- Stay up to 90 days.
- Access to the shelter is via referral from a registered professional or organization.
Design Features
- 12 suites in total, 4 wheelchair-friendly.
- Two people per room.
- The overall design reflects a home, not an institution.
- Each room has a bathroom and a small desk.
- The room size is equivalent to a hotel room.
- Double-size bed. Room for an additional bed.
- Meals prepared by a professional cook using an industrial kitchen.
- Lower level will provide a space for young people to play and complete schoolwork, as well serve as a multi-use space and laundry room.
- Guests will have access to all Esquao programs/activities next door.
- A courtyard space will provide an opportunity to enjoy nature.
- The housing unit will be located behind the Esquao offices.
- Accessible to public transportation and referrals to essential services (healthcare, schools, legal aid).
- 24-hour security system.
Building Timeline
- June 2025 to March 2026 – construction.
- March 2026 – tentative opening.
