Kenkéknem (Bear) Den
Kenkéknem (Ken-kék-nem) is bear in Secwepemctsín. The bear symbolizes both physical and spiritual healing. Kenkéknem Den is a partnership between First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) and Kamloops Native Housing Society (KNHS) to provide medical accommodations for BC status First Nations in Kamloops.
The Suite – Staying at the Kenkéknem (Bear) Den is meant to support guests on their healing journey, offering a space that encourages rest, recovery, and self-care. The suite is designed to feel safe and comforting, reflecting the bear’s protective energy, which helps guests feel supported and cared for during their stay. Just as bears emerge from hibernation renewed, guests are encouraged to take time for themselves, respecting the needs of both body and mind.
It was important to provide:
· the feeling of warmth and comfort of home,
· a culturally safe place, as the suite is in an
Indigenous Elder’s housing complex,
· the ability to cook the foods that they are used to
instead of eating out, and
· being able to be supported by other family
members or friends.
The suite is fully furnished with a private washroom and fully independent kitchen. A communal washer and dryer are located down the hall. The suite has wi-fi, Roger’s cable, wheelchair accessible bathroom, patio, and bedroom linens are provided. The suites are cleaned after each guest and if guests are staying longer with us, a housekeeper would clean the suite twice a week.
The suite has two bedrooms and can host a family of four people comfortably. The suite has a maximum capacity of 5 people. It is conveniently located on the ground floor and is suitable for a person with a disability, including walk-in shower.
The suite has a fully equipped kitchen (pots, pans, utensils, dishes, etc.) including a dishwasher to assist with the cleaning of dishes. Guests are responsible for taking care of the kitchen, food and dishes. Cleaning of the kitchen areas is guest’s responsibility and not included in the regular cleaning. If you would like us to clean your kitchen, we charge $30.00 per hour.
Parking
There are parking spots to the right at the back of the building near the back fence.
Health, Safety and Conduct:
1. Because this is a shared space with Elders, we all have a responsibility to ensure a safe and
welcoming environment for every family.
2. Consumption of alcohol, use of illegal drugs, and hosting parties are not permitted.
3. The use of cigarettes, e-cigarettes, marijuana or vaping devices is not permitted inside or outside
the building.
4. Pets and animals are not permitted, except for certified service animals
5. The suite may only be occupied by registered guests, with a maximum of five (5) people allowed at
any time.
6. Out of respect for complex residents, we ask that you maintain a quiet environment after 10:00 pm.
7. For fire safety, all guests and children need to be registered and must be always supervised by a
responsible adult.
8. Since your suite is on the ground floor, it’s recommended to keep the windows closed and locked
for added security. Please note that, due to the nearby major intersection, you may experience
noise at various times throughout the day.
9. Feel free to enjoy a refreshing glass of tap water—it’s perfectly safe to drink during your stay.
Check-In and Check-Out:
Our check-in is after 3pm and check out is before 11am. Kenkéknem (Bear) Den is in a secure building, Kamloops Native Housing Elders Complex. Upon arrival, our Coordinator will meet you and provide a fob for access to the building and a key/fob for your accommodation. Please note, the Coordinator is available to meet only until 8pm, except in exceptional circumstances and arrangements to be made in advance.
Guests must leave the key/fob(s) in the suite when checking out. Please note that there will a charge of $25.00 for not returning the key/fob(s) at the end of your stay.
Rate:
The rate is $170 plus GST per day.
Cancellation:
We recognize that appointments may get cancelled, however, a minimum of two (2) days notice must be given, or there will be a charge of a one-night stay.
Reservation Changes/Updates
You can contact FNHA Health Benefits by calling 1-800-317-7878 and select option 3 and option 1 or you may email at [email protected] to confirm, change or cancel your reservation.
Kenkéknem (Bear) Den Contact Information:
Questions or Concerns: [email protected] or 250-374-1728