Aboriginal Family Violence Programs administered by Saskatchewan Justice Victims Services Branch

Peyakowak (We Are Alone) Committee Inc.

Hanya Peigan, Peyakowak Committee Inc.
1650 Angus Street, Regina SK, S4T 1Z2
Phone: (306) 525-9689  Fax: (306) 525-6164

Background

The program provides healing from the effects of family violence using a holistic approach. This approach involves the physical, mental, spiritual and emotional well being of victims, children, offenders, their extended families, and the Kokums and Mushooms who are caught up in the cycle of family violence. The program targets Aboriginal people who are experiencing problems with family violence as well as serving non-Aboriginal people who are seeking support.

Program Objectives

• Provide in-home individual, family or group counselling using traditional approaches in an attempt to reduce the effects of family violence within the Aboriginal community;
• Provide a safe environment where confidentiality is respected;
• Provide support in a non-threatening manner;
• Provide a program that offers traditional healing practices using traditional spirituality, ceremonies, and teachings as defined by the Elders;
• Adopt a family approach to healing;
• Educate families, staff and the Board about the effects of family violence and alcohol abuse;
• Use Elders as role models who will offer experience and guidance to clients; and
• Provide alternative ways of dealing with anger and frustration.

Services offered in 2002/2003

• In-home counselling sessions for individuals and groups, with the victim, children and the perpetrator;
• Working as a team with staff and Elders;
• Advocating for clients;
• Developing a network with other agencies to help with the exchange of referrals;
• Educational workshops about topics such as spouse abuse and enhancing parenting skills; and
• Intensive support groups for Elders, men, women, children and adolescents.

Program Organization and Management

The program employs one family violence worker who works under the supervision of the executive director of Peyakowak. The program works co-operatively with the Circle Project Association Inc, and Elders guide the program.

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