New centre aims to reach out to off-reserve First Nations
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Updated: November 04, 2009 1:52 PM
A new committee has formed with the dream of opening a First Nations Friendship Centre in Hope.
A Friendship Centre assists all First Nations people by providing opportunities and resources for the development of aboriginal leadership and overall health,” says committee chair Bonnie Millward.
The new Trails Crossing Friendship Centre will be a not for profit organization “committed to strengthening the community by supporting common ground for all nations.”
“Statistically approximately 40 per cent of the population within the District of Hope is identified as aboriginal. Of this percentage one third are not represented by a local or even semi-local band and many more live off reserve,” says Millward.
Without a home base for cultural events or services, that are needed and sometimes required, the closest assistance for this substantial population is at Friendship Centres in Mission, Lytton, Penticton, or Kelowna.
The new ‘Trails Crossing Friendship Centre’ would service Hope, Boston Bar, Agassiz, Harrison and sometimes into Chilliwack should these Chilliwack area residents choose Hope over Mission,” says Millward.
“We would not close our doors to anyone. If someone was seeking direction on how to register their children or access Service Canada resources they could do this through the Hope centre. Or a person may be seeking cultural input or wanting to participate or learn about the aboriginal culture.”
The committee is exploring start up grants, a location, and programming.
Community members are welcome to get involved in the planning process. Contact a board member or leave a message for Millward at the Free Rein Associates SOCIA building. Other board members include Vern Millward, Harvey Robinson, Spencer Cameron, Susan Anderson, Marilyn Hendrichs.
Councillor Ron Smith is acting as district council representative on the new board.
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