Family Violence Initiative

COMPENDIUM OF PROMISING PRACTICES TO REDUCE VIOLENCE AND INCREASE SAFETY OF ABORIGINAL WOMEN IN CANADA

HISTORICAL LEGACY

Healing and Renewal of Family Roles and Responsibilities

Program Name:

Community Adult Services: Alternative to Violence Program

Organization/Community:

Saskatoon Health Region & Saskatoon Indian and Métis Friendship Centre

Location:

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Website:

http://www.saskatoonhealthregion.ca/

Goals and Objectives:

To end spousal abuse and assault and violence of all kinds in the home.

Target Group Description:

Men and Women.

Program Description:

There are a number of groups, some of which are meant for men and some that are meant exclusively for women. The women's groups employ talking circles and teachings that help define violence, issues stemming from families of origin, gender bias, and processes of false justification for violence. Education on the cycle of violence is relevant for both the men's and women's groups and has direct impact upon Aboriginal women and their safety, both as victims and as perpetrators of violence. The men's programming includes traditional methods of healing such as sweetgrass smudging, sweat lodges, feasts, and Elders' teachings.

Program Successes/Impact:

Successfully enabling clients to develop the tools needed to be able to prevent and safely diffuse family violence situations.

Key Lesson/Challenge:

Obtaining funding and human resources.

Program in operation since:

2005.

Program:

Ongoing.