Early Foundation and Evolving Mission

Initially established to assist newcomers and immigrants with settlement and community integration, the founders soon recognized a significant gap in culturally responsive services for women and children experiencing family violence, homelessness, poverty, and social isolation. This realization inspired the organization to expand its mission and develop programs that address both immediate needs and long-term empowerment.

A Defining Milestone: MASKAN in 2019

A defining milestone in the organization's journey came in 2019 with the establishment of MASKAN, one of Alberta's first culturally responsive transitional shelters serving Muslim, newcomer, immigrant, and refugee women and children fleeing abuse, violence, and homelessness. The name Maskan, meaning "a place of peace, comfort, and shelter," reflects the organization's commitment to providing a safe environment where families can heal, rebuild their lives, and regain independence.

Building a Permanent Shelter Home

Building a permanent shelter was one of the organization's greatest challenges. With the help of Allah Almighty, the generosity of community members, and the unwavering dedication of its founders, volunteers, and supporters, Maskan Family Association was able to purchase a shelter home in 2023. While this achievement created a lasting foundation for the organization's work, approximately 70% of the mortgage remains outstanding, and the organization continues to rely on fundraising and community support to meet its financial commitments while keeping the shelter operational.

Comprehensive Community Services

Over the years, Maskan Family Association has grown into a trusted community organization providing transitional housing, crisis intervention, case management, mental health counselling, settlement services, housing support, employment readiness, financial literacy, language and digital skills training, family violence prevention programs, and culturally responsive outreach services.

Youth Leadership as a Driving Force

Recognizing that young people are powerful agents of change, Maskan Family Association established the Youth Lifting Youth (YLY) initiative to engage youth in meaningful community service, leadership development, and civic engagement. Since the organization's inception, youth volunteers have been at the heart of Maskan's work. They have dedicated countless volunteer hours to organizing fundraising events, preparing and distributing food hampers, supporting shelter operations, mentoring younger participants, leading community outreach activities, and volunteering at awareness campaigns and community events. Their passion, leadership, and commitment have been instrumental in the growth and success of Maskan Family Association.

IYLC and National Partnership Impact

Building on this strong youth foundation, Maskan Family Association successfully secured funding from Women and Gender Equality Canada (WAGE) to implement Immigrant Youth Leading Change (IYLC) in collaboration with the Alberta Council of Women's Shelters (ACWS). The project equipped immigrant and newcomer youth with the knowledge, confidence, and leadership skills to become champions for gender equality and the prevention of gender-based violence. Through youth-led workshops, peer education, leadership development, and community awareness initiatives, participants promoted healthy relationships, challenged harmful stereotypes, and fostered inclusive, safe communities. The project also strengthened partnerships with schools, post-secondary institutions, community organizations, and youth leaders, leaving a lasting legacy of youth leadership and community engagement.

Partnerships and Growth

Through strong partnerships with government, community organizations, educational institutions, healthcare providers, volunteers, and donors, Maskan Family Association has expanded its reach while ensuring services remain accessible, equitable, and trauma-informed.

Rebranding and Forward Vision

Since its inception, Maskan Family Association has supported thousands of individuals and families, helping them move from crisis to stability, independence, and hope. In 2024, the organization officially rebranded from the Canadian Pakistani Support Group Association to Maskan Family Association, reflecting its evolution into a multicultural organization serving people of all backgrounds while maintaining its commitment to culturally responsive and faith-sensitive care.

Despite ongoing financial challenges, including the loss of operational funding for its shelter, Maskan Family Association remains steadfast in its mission. Guided by compassion, dignity, equity, and inclusion, the organization continues to advocate for safer communities and a future where every woman, child, and family has access to safety, support, and the opportunity to build a brighter future.