Family Violence Initiative

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

Program Name:: Sacred Child Program
Organization/Community:: Minwaashin Lodge
Location:: Ottawa, Ontario
Website:: www.minlodge.com
Goals and Objectives:: To recognize, enhance and celebrate the value and importance of the family and the roles of children.
Target Group Description:: Children (Ages 0-6) and their caregivers.
Program Description:: The program offers workshops concerning: positive native parenting for caregivers, parental relief (child care) of a maximum of 3 hours, team building for children, building positive self-esteem through arts and crafts, developing greater listening and communication skills through storytelling, addressing the effects of family violence on children who witness violence. The program also teaches children about good/bad touching, calling 911, healthy relationships and what boundaries are. There is a strong cultural component to program focusing on traditional Aboriginal art forms and storytelling. There are also nurse visitations to give education sessions to caregivers concerning prenatal and early childhood care.
Program Successes/Impact:: The successful reintegration of children to their families from social services organizations where possible.
Key Lessons/Challenges:: Obtaining funding. The need for larger facilities.
Program in operation since:: 1996.
Program:: Ongoing.