British Columbia Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres

Purpose

This 29-month project will build the capacity for Indigenous women to address gender-based violence (GBV) in communities across British Columbia using a culturally appropriate approach. Specifically, the project will create systemic change through a province-wide service delivery framework that trains Indigenous women to have the knowledge and skills to support women and girls experiencing GBV; maintains culturally appropriate strategies through consultations with Indigenous women led committees; and develops and provides culturally appropriate capacity building tools, resources and supports for Indigenous organizations, mentor, and advocates. The project will result in an Indigenous leadership advisory committee representing all 8 regions of the province, two cohort groups cycling through 20 days of the training program, a provincial Indigenous GBV service delivery framework, the establishment and expansion of an Indigenous-specific crisis support line, a complimentary Indigenous led housing strategy, and a project evaluation to highlight where enhancements in the delivery and approach are needed. Strategic partnerships with Battered Women’s Support Services, Aboriginal Housing Management Association, and BC Society of Transition Houses will be integral to the success of the project.