Ka Ni Kanichihk News

2020 was definitely different and came with lots of struggles for our group of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2 Spirit-impacted families. The families of Ka Ni Kanichihk’s Medicine Bear program have always socialized in person and we sure miss eating together, talking, beading, and just enjoying each other’s company. It was very challenging to keep our strong connection going during the pandemic. But Medicine Bear Counselling is doing our best to ensure our families can still...

After dealing with the impact of COVID-19 over the past 12 months, the ‘I Love Myself’ theme was very fitting for this year’s annual Heart Medicine Lodge Gathering. While 2020 was challenging, it also offered an opportunity to reflect and allowed many of us to spend more time with loved ones. This year’s Heart Medicine Lodge Gathering was also unique, as it was the first time it was held virtually. Even though we met on online, it was wonderful for the community to come together and connect...

As a part of virtual programming, the Manitoba Youth Transitional Employment and Mentorship (M.Y.T.E.A.M) program delivered Cedar Bath ceremony kits to participants’ homes. The amazing MYTEAM program provides support and mentorship to youth who are in the care of Child and Family Services. The Cedar Bath ceremony kits are prepared by traditional knowledge keeper, Natasha Turner, and each one contains cedar, sage, a small eagle feather, and instructions on how to prepare your individualized...

Velma’s House welcomes and values people just as they are, without judgment or assumptions. The 24/7 Safe Space, “Velma’s House”, is an initiative led by Ka Ni Kanichihk and delivered in collaboration with the 24/7 Safe Space Planning Committee (or the Lived Experience Advisory Committee of Survivors), consisting of: the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Manitoba Coalition of Families, the Aboriginal Health and Wellness Centre, the Ma Mawi Wi Chi Itata Centre, End Homelessness...

A message from Dodie Jordaan, Executive Director. As many of you have commented, 2020 was certainly a challenging year. Yet, as I now look back on the year, I realize some incredible things happened because of you. Because of our community. When the pandemic hit Canada, we knew immediately that our community was most vulnerable and would be the most affected. We also knew support had to go on, so we were thrilled the community allowed us to move programming and supports remotely and online....

Restoring the Sacred is an Indigenous-knowledge-based program that supports students from rural and northern communities when they move to Winnipeg to complete their high school education. It can be quite a transition – and full of risk and uncertainty. Restoring the Sacred connects youth with volunteer mentors in a safe, supportive environment so that all the young people have someone they can count on for advice, guidance and strong, healthy and meaningful relationships. We want everyone to...