Family Violence Initiative

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

INTERACTIONS WITHIN COMMUNITIES

Family Violence Interventions

Program Name:

Working Together in Unity and Solidarity to Address Family Violence

Organization/Community:

Mi'kmaq Family and Children Services of Nova Scotia

Location:

Eskasoni, Nova Scotia

Website:

N/A

Goals and Objectives:

To provide Family Violence Education and Proactive Intervention through information/education sessions in all Mi'kmaq communities in Nova Scotia.

Target Group Description:

Everyone (on reserve).

Program Description:

Quarterly workshops are held in all First Nation communities in Nova Scotia as well as a series of specific programs. The activities include: domestic violence education / awareness / prevention workshops; Child Safety Project – Child Sexual Assault Prevention programs; Youth gatherings – Teen Time Out; Youth/Elder Healing Blanket Project; Baby Blanket – Baby's First Relationship program; Support Groups for women affected by trauma and violence; After School Program – life skills; Media Promotion program; Interagency of Family Violence; Purple Ribbon Campaign; Parenting Programs; Sisters in Spirit Renewal Programs; Family Violence Prevention week. All practices and programs are rooted in the Mi'kmaq language and cultural traditions.

Program Successes/Impact:

The delivery of innovative, effective, culturally relevant and meaningful family violence prevention and healing programs for diverse communities' members.

Key Lessons/Challenges:

Obtaining funding. Lack of second stage housing and men's shelters on reserve.

Program in operation since:

2007.

Program:

Ongoing.