From the Executive Director …

Thank you to the NWRCT staff and management team, to each volunteer and community member. Your hard work, dedication and support always contribute to a year of support services and community empowerment.

To our clients and participants, you inspire our mission and vision; we maintain and push every year for you and your integrity. Your continuous presence and determination strengthen our purpose, fueling our commitment to evolve in every way possible to help serve you better.

Thank you to our in-house Traditional Healers, Mary Anne Shoefly and Judy Sackaney, who have invested themselves personally, professionally and spiritually to help nurture spirits, heal, promote well-being and support those in need. The work and guidance has made it possible for every staff member, client and community member to experience our culture and ceremony in a safe and inclusive environment. The teachings and guidance support the culture and efforts of the commitment of NWRCT, and remind us to walk in balance.

A special recognition goes to our funders and donors. The contributions each year assist with increased confidence and the growth of the community we serve. The kind spirits, support and generosity make the work we do at NWRCT a possibility and it is with sincere heart that we say Chi Miigwetch to contributing to the direction and work of the Centre.

Thank you to the Board of Directors; with your guidance we maintain and progress each year. The ongoing support and effort has been vital for ongoing development and growth not only for the community and the Centre but also in the role of Executive Director.

This year we report that we supported 20 individuals in securing permanent housing, and we held 12 Shake Tent ceremonies and 12 Full Moon ceremonies. We served over 2000 hot meals, and 2367 clients were supported though the Centre. Fourteen Trans and 2S identifying individuals were directly impacted by the services and programs. Over 170 women who required in-crisis/trauma support found supports through the program.

We will aim to continue and maintain the services that provide sincere, supportive, capacity-enhancing care and apply ourselves each year to be innovative and focused to ensure that the community of NWRCT feels empowered and confident in their roles of Indigenous women.

SPECIAL NOTE: The end of the fiscal year served a challenge and a shift that affected staff, community and the operations of NWRCT and beyond. COVID-19 was an unpredictable and unknown circumstance that will have lasting effects on the future of our community.

NWRCT quickly pivoted to offer self-directed programs, online programs, remote sessions with Healers, remote access to staff, grocery delivery, a hotline, and safe relocation for women in high-risk or violent situations. NWRCT continues to monitor and navigate the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic while considering and implementing all measures to ensure the safety and well-being of staff and community members.

Pamela Hart

Executive Director