Mission Statement

“ Our Mission here at the Medicine Bear Shelter for the homeless is to provide a safe haven for the less fortunate, to provide meals and shelter to the poverty-stricken, to keep the welcome mat out at all times for all our brothers and sisters in the creator’s eyes

For non-financial donations such furniture, clothing, or food, please contact Marcedes Old Person at moldperson@blackfeetnation.com

Director: Marcedes Old Person

The Medicine Bear Shelter has been serving the Blackfeet Reservation community since the late 1980s, beginning with Joe Bear and Carl Cree Medicine, who offered meals to those in need from a small building on Main Street. In the early 1990s, the Tribe provided a larger space—the former detox center—which allowed the shelter to expand and accommodate up to 50 beds. Originally named Bear Medicine Shelter in honor of its founders, the name was later changed to Medicine Bear Shelter to avoid confusion with a local family name. After the original building was condemned in 2012, the shelter relocated to a smaller facility where it continues to provide one to two meals a day, emergency housing, and support for those in crisis.

Hours of Operation

Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Saturday: Closed

Sunday: Closed

How We Help

  • Temporary housing facility with approximately 10 cots for emergency overnight shelter

  • 1–2 hot meals provided Monday through Friday

  • Access to daily showers, laundry services, and toiletry items

  • Clothing, shoes, and outerwear are available upon request

  • Referrals to outside programs and advocacy support

  • Assistance in identifying and addressing individual needs

  • Temporary shelter available for a limited number of individuals due to space constraints

  • Support with applications for jobs, school, housing, and more