Aboriginal Family Violence Programs administered by Saskatchewan Justice Victims Services Branch

Family Healing Circle Lodge

Faye Norris, Family Healing Circle Lodge
128 Avenue Q South, Saskatoon SK, S7M 1T3
Phone: (306) 653-3900 Fax: (306) 653-0394

Background

The Family Healing Circle Lodge provides a family violence program for Saskatoon. The program targets Aboriginal people who are dealing with the trauma of family violence, as well as serving non-Aboriginal people who are in crisis and seeking support.

Program Objectives

• Expand the present services that are provided by the Family Circle Healing Lodge using a broad, holistic approach;
• Provide a supportive environment that is sensitive to the community and to cultural differences;
• Reduce crime using a proactive approach;
• Assist those who are violent against others by giving them the tools to deal non-violently with issues that affect them;
• Use Elders as role models who will offer experience and guidance to clients;
• Use traditional Aboriginal practices, such as healing circles, in individual and group therapy;
• Incorporate traditional family values and practices into the program;
• Develop links to community agencies working in the area of family violence;
• Work with children and families affected by family violence; and
• Build links between the Family Healing Circle Lodge and other agencies.

Services Offered in 2002/2003

• Men’s Support Group;
• Counselling for men who are engaging in family violence;
• Supporting victims of family violence and accompanying them to court appearances, legal appointments and counselling; and
• Home visits to assess home situations, and to provide follow up and support services to families.

Program Organization and Management

The program employs a male counsellor/facilitator and a part-time follow-up worker. Both report to the office manager of the Family Healing Circle Lodge. A board of directors provides guidance and oversees the program.

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