Crisis Center Qarajaq Faces Urgent Need for New Premises
Since the beginning of the year, activity at Crisis Center Qarajaq in Aasiaat has surged. From December 22 to June 8, the shelter has continuously housed residents, according to its manager, Mina Schmidt.
For almost four decades, this independent facility has provided refuge for those seeking shelter from domestic violence and other crises. However, its operations came to an abrupt halt on June 8 due to mold issues, a situation compounded by a lack of support from the municipality in finding a new location.
“Our inability to accept individuals facing domestic violence is distressing,” Schmidt told KNR. “In June, we reached out to the municipality to discuss the possibility of renting an alternative building. Unfortunately, the Municipality of Qeqertalik has indicated it cannot assist.”
Schmidt emphasized the pressing need for action, especially given that Aasiaat’s population exceeds 3,000 residents and the center often receives inquiries for help from surrounding coastal communities. “We’ve had to turn people away, despite having previously accommodated residents from other towns.”
The municipality sees the situation differently. Karl Villiam Jeremiassen, city manager of Qeqertalik, responded in writing, stating that, although Qarajaq has no alternative facilities at the moment, the municipality initiated a temporary solution. “We directed Qarajaq to use a municipal association room during the day while we work to find a suitable long-term solution,” he wrote, clarifying that this arrangement is solely for administrative tasks, not residential ones.
Jeremiassen assured that the municipality stands ready to assist with any additional costs that might arise from relocating or utilizing suitable premises. “This offer of assistance remains in effect,” he added.
The Threat of Closure
Schmidt expressed concern over the shelter’s future. “If we don’t secure new premises soon, we may face closure,” she warned, noting that the center is an independent entity responsible for its operations.
In response, Jeremiassen reiterated that the municipality has not refused assistance. He claimed it has consistently communicated its willingness to help find a solution.
“No decision has been made to take over Qarajaq’s operations,” he stated, reaffirming the municipality’s intent for the shelter to continue serving those in need. He also reminded that back in January 2009, the shelter was exempted from paying rent but subsequently agreed to take full responsibility for the building’s maintenance.
An Urgent Call for Solutions
Qarajaq caters to individuals aged 18 and above who have experienced domestic violence, threats, or other severe challenges. Since its closure on June 8, 12 people have reached out for help, but the center’s capacity to assist them has been severely restricted.
Upon closure, residents were compelled to vacate, leading the shelter to arrange hotel accommodations when the municipality failed to provide alternative housing. “We had no choice but to step in and help them ourselves,” Schmidt explained.
After exhausting inquiries with the Municipality of Qeqertalik, Qarajaq has also sought support from higher authorities, including the municipal council and the mayor. According to Schmidt, the center has yet to receive responses from the mayor or council but has engaged in discussions with the Naalakkersuisut. “On Friday, we received a message from them asking us to submit our case for review,” she said.
Jeremiassen emphasized that the municipality doesn’t wish to escalate tensions with Qarajaq and aims to clarify its stance and respond to the center’s criticisms. The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated; the search for a sustainable solution must begin now.