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Indian Homemakers' Association of B.C.

The Indian Homemakers' Association of B.C. is the oldest provincial First Nations women's organization in B.C. and originally was known as The Sisterhood. Incorporated as a non-profit society in 1969, the Association cherishes its independence so that it can better reflect and respond to the needs of First Nations women and their children. Funding for projects comes mainly from the federal and provincial governments.

WHO WE ARE: WHAT WE DO

The Indian Homemakers' Association of B.C. assists women and their children, on and off reserve in B.C., in the struggle for the restoration of aboriginal and women's rights. The Association provides information to reserve and urban First Nations women about issues that affect these women and their families. In turn, it presents these concerns to governments and the general public. We are struggling to achieve social justice to obtain economic independence, to preserve the integrity of the family and to live in harmony with nature.

PROJECTS AND SERVICES

Family Counselling

Since 1986, the Association has employed trained and experienced Native counsellors. The services offered include:

• Family counselling (parenting, life skills, crisis, budgeting and relationships)
• Alcohol and drug counselling on an individual basis and in groups. Referrals to detox and residential treatment centres
• Child welfare program, including helping clients understand the process and meaning of child apprehension and offering support in family court
• Advocacy with the Ministry of Social Services for people experiencing difficulty obtaining social assistance and hardship grants
• Explanation of the Indian Act and assistance in applying for Indian status
• Liaison with and referrals to other agencies, e.g. Legal Aid (to obtain and pay for a lawyer), Medical Services, educational and training centres.

Native Women's Prison Liaison Workers

Two full-time workers at Burnaby Correctional Centre for Women, whose duties are:

• Alcohol and drug counselling on an individual basis
• Healing Circles (Elders)
• Sweat Lodge ceremonies (Elders)
• AA meetings
• Pre/Post release and Appeals
• Referrals to treatment centres, halfway houses etc.
• Arts and crafts (Elders)

Employment Counselling

Employment training programs and workshops for unemployed First Nations women are provided.

Traditional Parenting Skills Program

• Traditional family roles and traditions
• Roles of medicinal herbs, plants and foods
• Importance of physical health using traditional games and activities
• Tracing personal family tree to discover family history and clan roots
• The meaning of important aboriginal belief systems and activities such as: the medicine wheel; the potlatch; sweat and pipe ceremonies; smudging.

Used Clothing

Donations of used clothing and household goods are always welcome. They will be given to needy families or individuals.

Summer Student Program

Several Native students are provided with the opportunity to obtain work experience and training at the Vancouver office during their summer vacation.

Practicum Student Placements

Volunteers

For more information, contact:
Indian Homemakers' Association of B.C.
#208 - 175 East Broadway
Vancouver, B.C. V5T 1W2
Phone: (604) 876-1468 or 876-0944
Fax: (604) 876-1448