The Aboriginal Child & Youth Wellness Program
The Aboriginal Child & Youth Wellness Program was created for children, youth and their families; to promote wellness, balance and healing. In terms of the medicine wheel, balance means being strong emotionally, physically, mentally and spiritually.
Our program is based in Prince George, and we have support workers and clinicians who travel to, or live near our communities. Our team works with Lheidli T’enneh, McLeod Lake, Tsay Keh Dene and Kwadacha.
CULTURAL & CLINICAL
We aim to provide counselling and support which integrates culture, teachings and provides cultural opportunities. We are guided by our Cultural and Spiritual Advisors. We also aim to provide clinical counselling services for our clients and their families. Counsellors have a clinical supervisor; and we have access to a Psychiatrist when needed.
COUNSELLING & ASSESSMENT
Supportive counselling and assessment is flexible, available in an outreach format, and incorporates Indigenous healing. Clients are able to maintain a long term connection with their counsellor. Clients must meet program criteria to access individual counselling. Clinicians have Master’s Degrees in Counselling, Psychology or a related field. Support workers have a Bachelor’s Degree in a related discipline.
GROUPS
Groups are offered throughout the year, and have a cultural component. If you are interested in what is being offered, or have suggestions for a group, please contact us.
WORKSHOPS
Workshops for children and their parents are offered throughout the year, as well as during our annual Winter Wellness Workshop; and at the request of the community. Community professionals will be invited to join us for training that we deliver and attend; in order to build community capacity. Team members are trained facilitators for Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI), Strengthening Families, and ASIST-Suicide Intervention Training.
For more information, please contact:
Prince George Native Friendship Centre
Aboriginal Child & Youth Wellness Program (ACYWP)
1600 - 3rd Avenue (3rd Floor), Prince George, BC V2L 3G6
Phone (250) 564-4324 Fax (250) 614-7728
Mon, Tues, Wed and Fri 9:00am - to 12:00pm & 1:00pm to 4:30pm
Thursdays 9:00am to Noon
Closed Weekends and Statutory Holidays
Funded by Ministry of Children and Family Development
Wazdidadilh "Beginning The Journey"
Aboriginal Infant and Family Development Program
The Aboriginal Infant and Family Development Program (AIFDP) is a family-centered environment for expectant families and those with children ages birth through six. It operates at no charge to families thanks to funding from the Ministry of Children and Family Development.
The name "Wazdidadilh" roughly translates to "Beginning the Journey" from Nedut'en (Lake Babine Carrier dialect) and we thank the members of that community for sharing this translation with us.
Aboriginal Infant and Family Development Program:
We focus on the needs of expectant families and those with children ages birth to six years of age. Developmental assessments will be available for all children to inform parents of their child(ren)'s progress. We beleive that children learn best through play and that all people deserve to have a positive connection with nature.
Services provided:
• Parent and child(ren) drop-in
• Parent and child(ren play groups
• Home visits
• Parent education such as Nobody's Perfect and 1234 Parents
• Parent-child Mother Goose
• Culturally-based workshops
• Nature walks
• Transportation to and from the programs
• Pregnancy outreach referrals
• Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder information
• Parental capacity building
• Clothing exchange
• Healthy lifestyles skill building
• Child Assessment and referrals
• Toy and resource lending
• Community networking
• Family support
• Community Garden
Aboriginal Infant Development Outreach:
Our team is a group of dedicated individuals with various backgrounds including: psychology, counselling, child development, early childhood education, special needs as well as experience and training with ages 0-3 years of age.
Our focus is on the needs of families and their children ages birth to three years of age. Our program offers home visits with the intent to monitor developmental progress, and to provide information and referrals for any needs the families may have.
Services provided:
• Home visits
• Hospital visits
• Child Assessments and referrals
• Parent education
• Toy and resource lending
• Community networking
• Family support from birth to three
• Emotional support
• Support with addictions
• Information about the support with post partum depression
• Information on how to care for your baby
• Ways to make your home safe for you and your baby
• Activities for family and baby to enjoy together
• Facts on developmental milestones
• Infant massage training
Building Blocks
Our goals are to:
• Empower parents to the best of their ability to educate and nurture their children as well as themselves
• Encourage parents/guardians to be proactive and advocate for their children
• Focus on encouragement in providing healthy and nutritious snack ideas
• Give participants a voice in selecting/sharing nutritious recipes for the community kitchens
Services provided:
• Parent education
• Community networking
• Family support from ages birth to six
• Activities for family and child to enjoy together
• Off-site playgroups
• Community kitchens (Beech Crescent and South Fort George Family Resource Centre)
• Building Blocks (crafting and networking)
• Ready Set Learn
• Community Gardens
For more information, please contact:
Prince George Native Friendship Centre
Aboriginal Infant & Family Development Program (AIFDP)
Lisa Vienneau, Coordinator
1600 3rd Avenue, Prince George, BC V2L 3G6
Phone (250) 564-5941 and Fax (250) 564-5946
Aboriginal Supported Child Development Program
Aboriginal Supported Child Development Program (ASCD) is intended for children who need extra support to be included in any child care settings, because they have a developmental delay or disability in physical, cognitive, communicative or social/emotional/behavioural areas.
Aboriginal supported child development is a family centered program, based in the community, and is reflective and responsive to community diversity.
The circle that envelops the child includes Elders, parents, caregivers, community and the ASCD services. Each of these has specific roles and responsibilities that make up the circle, to fully support the child. Decisions about the child’s services always take the child’s best interest into account.
“Children may be likened to a handful of seeds from many flowers. At first they may seem more similar than different in many respects. Place these seeds in the earth and nourish them. As they grow and mature their differences become marked. Some remain small and delicate while others are large and brilliant, some bloom early and some late. One thing they all have in common: under good conditions they all bloom and have their own beauty.” Edward L. Mattil
Program:
It is intended to assist children who require extra support to be included in a childcare or out-of-school-care setting.
The Aboriginal Supported Child Development Program works in partnership with parents, other professionals and childcare centers within the Prince George and surrounding area
Family culture is included and promoted in all aspects of the program.
Services Provided:
• Family Support
• Community Networking
• Support Staff for Child Care Settings
• Resource Lending Library
• Child Assessments
• Ages & Stages Questionnaire
• Battelle Developmental Inventory
• Referrals
• Speech and Hearing
• Physiotherapy
• Occupational therapy
• Other programs and professionals
How to Access Services:
If a parent or caregiver has concerns about a child’s development and wishes to seek Indigenous specific services please contact the ASCD program.
Parents may self-refer or referrals may come from community professionals. Families participate on a voluntary basis.
The ASCD program accepts referrals in person, or by telephone, fax or e-mail.
Program Components:
Services available to connect a family, child or youth to a childcare setting, or resource that supports parental choice.
ASCD consultants and support staff facilitate care plans for children and provide resources as required. Early intervention activities are provided to enhance the developmental needs of each child.
Information offered to support parents as well as community partners.
For more information, please contact:
Prince George Native Friendship Centre
Aboriginal Supported Child Development Program (ASCD123)
Kim Rud, Director of Early Services
Phone (250) 564-3568 Ext: 107
Email: krud@pgnfc.com
Funded by Ministry of Children and Family Development
My Way Youth Program
For information, contact:
Prince George Native Friendship Centre
Sheila Rennie, Director of Youth Services
1600 - 3rd Avenue, Prince George, BC V2L 3G6
Phone (250) 564-3568, Ext. 202 and Fax (250) 563-0924
Email: srennie@pgnfc.com
Shelters
Emergency Services:
Ketso Yoh – Men’s Shelter
Phone (250) 563-1982
Tse' Koo Huba Yoh – Women’s Shelter
Phone (250) 564-6454
House of Friendship – Women's and Men's Shelter
Phone (250) 563-0895 or (250) 563-0849
Reconnect Youth Village – Youth Shelter
Phone (250) 562-2538
For other resources and services contact (250) 564-3568
Camp Friendship
The Camp Friendship is operational year round with modern amentities.
The Tsitniz Lodge, built in 1991, houses an commercial kitchen, dining hall, foyer, office, first aid room, 10 sleeping rooms and showers, with one shower equipped for handicap accessibility.
Included on the Campgrounds are five cabins each with 12 bunk beds, electricity and wood heat. A rustic cooks quarters is also available.
There are three rooms available for meetings or other activities, the Spruce Room has wood heat, but the Pine Room is best utilized for summer time. The Fir Room can be used as a conference/meeting room with audio/visual equipment available.
Camp Friendship is available for rental and can accommodate groups of up to 75.
For more information on Camp Friendship's facilities and rental opportunities, please contact:
Smokehouse Restaurant & Hospitality Services
hospitality@pgnfc.com
1600 - 3rd Avenue, Prince George, BC V2L 3G6
Phone (250) 564-3568 or (250) 614-7726
Fax (250) 614-7733
For more information, contact:
Prince George Native Friendship Centre
1600 - 3rd Avenue, Prince George, BC V2L 3G6
Phone (250) 564-3568 and Fax (250) 563-0924
Funded by Canada Summer Jobs
Victim Services Program
The Prince George Native Friendship Centre’s Victim Services program provides support for our Prince George community members, who may be struggling after an incident of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, or human trafficking. We offer a genuine, caring and empathetic approach to being present with a survivor, to hear his or her story and to help with the process of moving toward healing. This can include supporting community members during their time attending court, helping to navigate the complexities of the legal system, and helping to find resources that can assist in developing tools for personal wellness.
This program supports both Indigenous and Non-Indigenous community members with the challenges that may surface following survival of a crime, including court orientation, victim impact statements, court accompaniment, liaising with crown counsel and the RCMP, providing general court information, and accessing the “Crime Victim Assistance Program (CVAP)”. We work collaboratively with and can refer out to counseling, lawyers, multicultural supports, court workers, housing, literacy, human rights complaints services and police complaints services.
For more information, please contact:
Prince George Native Friendship Centre
Victim Services Program
Jackie Campbell
1600 - 3rd Avenue (3rd Floor), Prince George, BC V2L 3G6
Phone: (250) 564-4324, or Fax: (250) 614-7728
Email: jcampbell@pgnfc.com
CULTURAL ADVISOR
The Cultural Advisor provides cultural information, expertise and consultation to staff, families and the community as requested. Utilizing holistic approaches, the Cultural Advisor:
• Offers support and case management assessment to Friendship Centre programs;
• Plan, coordinates and facilitates joint activities with youth who are interested in interacting with Elders in a positive and supportive environment;
• Coordinates Elder's Luncheons which are held every 3rd Wednesday of the month from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm. The morning begins with crafts followed by a nutritious lunch and BINGO! Elder`s Activities;
• Assists with Family Camps, Elder's Camps and Healing Camps located at Camp Friendship.
• Assists families in crisis who need guidance in their time of need
For more information, please contact:
Prince George Native Friendship Centre
Bertha Cardinal, Cultural Advisor
1600 - 3rd Avenue, Prince George, BC V2L 3G6
Phone: (250) 564-3568, Ext. 120 and Fax: (250) 563-0924
Email: bcardinal@pgnfc.com
ELDER`S ACTIVITIES
PGNFC hosts several activites for Elders throughout the year, anyone aged 55 and Older is welcome to attend these events.
For more information on services and activities, or to become an Elder Volunteer, please contact:
Prince George Native Friendship Centre
Bertha Cardinal, Cultural Advisor
1600 - 3rd Avenue Prince George, BC V2L 3G6
Phone (250) 564-3568, Ext. 120
Email: bcardinal@pgnfc.com
Emergency Resources / Volunteer Program
The Emergency Resources Program, funded by staff donations and contributions from the Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch, serves persons in need in the Prince George area. It includes emergency food hampers, which are provided based on completion of an emergency needs assessment, and, when funds allow, support for other emergency needs such as medically-required travel. It also includes activity at the Queensway Garden, a large shared garden space used for growing food crops.
The program strives to address other emergency needs including clothing through the provision of a clothes closet, which is stocked by individual donations, and contributions from local businesses.
Services:
Emergency Food Hampers:
Mondays to Thursdays from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm - bring a current piece of mail, i.e. bank statement or utility bill showing your address. The hamper room is located in the basement of the Friendship Centre at 1600 3rd Avenue. Any resident of Prince George is eligible to apply. Application forms are available at the door of the food hamper room.
Emergency Travel Assistance:
(within province only) - When funds allow, emergency assistance to help with unexpected costs is available. This can range from assistance with costs associated with glasses, and prescriptions, to costs that arise as a result of the need to travel to another community for family or medical emergencies.
Community Gardens:
Since 2002, many community agencies, including the Prince George Native Friendship Centre, have been fortunate to be part of the Queensway Community Garden: this peaceful shared space, established on land donation by Ed and Lynn Gilliard, has provided countless hours of sun, fresh air, and exercise, and large volumes of fresh produce to the community of Prince George.
Pivotal to this our emergency services existence is the countless hours of time and effort put in by volunteers to organize clothes, stock shelves, pack hampers, and maintain the garden. Many thanks to those who give willingly to this program. For more information please contact Emma Faulkner, Program Coordinator.
For more information, please contact
Prince George Native Friendship Centre
Emergency Resources and Volunteer Program
Emma Faulkner, Coordinator
1600 Third Avenue, Prince George, BC V2L 3G6
Phone (250) 564-3568 Ext. 261 and Fax (250) 563-0924
Email: efaulkner@pgnfc.com
Funded by the Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch
Aboriginal Career Development Counsellor
A Bridge between the Job Seeker and the Jobs!
The Aboriginal Career Development Counsellor provides Employment Assistance Services to all unemployed and underemployed Indigenous individuals by assisting clients to overcome employment barriers that will lead to success in the workforce.
Employment Assistance Services:
• Individual employment counselling;
• Service Needs Determination;
• Setting self-directed goals;
• Development of a Return to Work Action Plan;
• Support throughout the job search process;
• Educational and training counselling & referrals;
• Confidence building / self-awareness;
• Career exploration and decision–making;
• Explore career choices and funding options for training;
• Research job futures for careers;
• Understand how personal interests and preferences influence career using tools such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator;
• Referrals to resources within PGNFC and the community service providers.
Who Can Access These Services?
• All unemployed and underemployed Indigenous people living in the Prince George area; including Youth 15-29 years of age.
Job Search Resource:
• A comfortable atmosphere for job searching and/or career planning;
• Actively expanding networking skills and identifying support systems;
• Access to information on other community services that can assist with career development;
• Providing advice and material on personal presentation topics such as interview skills, body language and confidence building;
• Access to a computer for resume & cover letter development, internet job searches and job applications online;
• Access to career resources and labour market information.;
For more information:
Prince George Native Friendship Centre
Sheryl Elgie
Employment & Training Team Lead
1600 - 3rd Avenue, Prince George, BC V2L 3G6
Phone (250) 564-3568, Ext. 120 and Fax (250) 563-5627
Email: selgie@pgnfc.com
This service is funded by:the Urban Aboriginal Working Group
and
the Prince George Nechako Aboriginal Employment and Training Association
FUBU (For Us By Us) Youth In Care Network
Mission Statement:
The Prince George Youth in Care Network hosted by the Prince George Native Friendship Centre is dedicated to a holistic approach to the development and promotions of local youth in and from government care. The primary function of this group is to; give support, friendship, self-help, information, representation and advocacy to our local youth in and from government care.
1.To advocate on behalf of youth in and from government care, to help them generate changes to issues that are important to them.
2.To offer friendship and support to youth in and from government care
3. To create an environment that welcomes all individuals no matter their race, gender, sexual preference, religion, or economic status.
4.To provide youth with information regarding local services and resources as a self-help tool
5.To educate youth regarding the rights of care (Child, Family and Community Service Act, Section 70).
6.To provide youth with activities that help nurture their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual growth
7.To make inquiries regarding the needs, opinions, views, and concerns of youth in and from care
8.To promote community
The FUBU Mission Statement and Goals is a living document that is read at the beginning of each staff meeting. At which time FUBU team members can propose changes that would be implemented after a majority winning vote.
Program Facilitator
The FUBU Program Facilitator is an individual who meets the Job requirements set forth by the Prince George Native Friendship Centre. The FUBU Program Facilitators roles and responsibilities are as follows:
• Organize, facilitate, and evaluate programming targeted to youth in care;
• Educate youth on their Rights of Care (Child, Family and Community Service Act, Section 70);
• Provide cultural, social and recreational activities that build self esteem while respecting Indigenous traditions and cultural values;
• Provide holistic programming that will empower youth to develop a sense of self and connection to
• Indigenous culture/community;
• Prepare and facilitate presentations/workshops;
• Liaise, network, and advocate on behalf of youth in care with community agencies;
• Provide supervision and mentor the youth Program Support Workers; and
• Provide monthly narrative and statistical reports;
FUBU Youth Employment: Youth Peer Support Workers
The FUBU Youth in Care Network currently has employment opportunities for young people looking for new challenges and work experience. The FUBU Youth in Care Network host’s many different opportunities for young people in and from care of the Ministry of Children and Family Development including, educational, recreational, cultural, and personal development. The Program Support Worker position is responsible for attending and participating in FUBU events while demonstrating a positive attitude.
Other duties include:
• Read background literature and develop knowledge of children’s rights;
• Assist in the development, delivery, and evaluation of program targeted towards youth in and from care of the Ministry of Children and Family Development;
• Contact youth, group homes, service providers and other agencies regarding programming and special events;
• Create activity and special event posters;
• Network with service providers and agencies;
• Participate in training opportunities;
Other duties as required.
• Other Events hosted/involved with include:
• Culture Camps;
• Elders Luncheons and hosting special Elder/ Youth Nights;
• Workshops: Federation of BC Youth in Care Network, Rights 2 Success and McCreary Youth Foundation;
• Indigenous Next Steps;
• Special Events/ Holidays;
• Pro Day Events;
• Youth Dances;
• Games Nights;
• Hiking;
• Attending Conferences/ Culture Event in and out of community as a group; and
• YMCA Youth Exchange Program.
Drop-in Hours:
Tuesday to Thursday - 1 pm to 5 pm
Scheduled Activities:
Tuesdays - 6 pm to 8 pm: Community Kitchens
Wednesdays - 6 pm to 7 pm: Council Meetings
Wednesdays - 7 pm to 8:30 pm: Drum Group
Thursdays - 6 pm to 8 pm: Rec. Night
Fridays - 5 pm to 8 pm: Movie Night
Saturdays - 11 am to 1 pm: Youth Connections
Saturdays - 1 pm to 5 pm: Afternoon Activity
For more information, please contact:
Prince George Native Friendship Centre
For Us By Us (FUBU) Youth In Care Network
Natalia Todosia, Coordinator
1600 - 3rd Avenue, Prince George, BC V2L 3G6
Phone (250) 564-3568, Ext. 226 and Fax (250) 563-0924
Email: ntadosia@pgnfc.com
Funded by Ministry of Children and Family Development
Friendship Home
Friendship Home is a Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD) contracted residential resource providing safe, stable, secure and nurturing long-term residential services to youth who are in the care of MCFD. Friendship Home is a six bed co-ed resource providing service to youth ages twelve to eighteen. Friendship Home opened it’s doors for operation on January 26th 2003.
Services offered to Friendship Home Residents
• Long-term safe shelter
• Supervision 24hrs a day, seven days a week
• Clothing
• Food
• Recreational activities
• Educational activities
• Celebration of holidays and birthdays
• Transportation
• Therapeutic non-judgmental environment
• Allowances
• Camping trips
• Positive healthy role modeling
• Referrals
• Counselling
• Advocacy & Support
• Hobbies and Special Interests
The services offered at Friendship Home changes as our clientele changes. When a new youth comes to Friendship Home the team begins on an exploration journey with that youth to discover their likes, dislikes and needs to be able to provide them with the best possible service. We work to bring out their best potential and put our main focus on the positives they have going on for them.
For more information, please contact:
Jaemmy Prochner, Coordinator
Prince George Native Friendship Centre
1600 - 3rd Avenue, Prince George, BC V2L 3G6
Phone (250) 563-5085 and Fax (250) 563-0924
Email: jprochner@pgnfc.com
Funded by Ministry of Children and Family Development
Friendship Lodge
The Prince George Native Friendship Centre has joined with BC Housing to operate 30 units of supported housing, which addresses the needs of adults who are homeless or at risk of being homeless. Core to the development of Friendship Lodge is addressing the needs in our community through the provision of an affordable, safe "home" supportive atmosphere thereby facilitating resident's transition to greater stability.
Friendship Lodge assists individals with mental illnesses and/or physical disabilities and/or those with drug and alcohol addictions with help they require to transition to self-reliance and independence.
Services included:
• Lifeskills development
• Employment readiness development services
• Case management and therapeutic group work
• Linkages to the continuum of health, mental health, and addiction services
• Group activities
• Referrals to other community services when required
• Ongoing property risk management
• On site 24/7 staff support
• Residential support workers
• $375/month or Rent Geared to Income (includes heat, hot water, local telephone and laundry)
• Tenant must be low income
• Length of stay is based on case management with the individual tenant
• Tenant will be currently accessing support services (referral)
• Tenants must have some form of stabilization (i.e. Detox, supported recovery) and/or have the ability to live independently
• Tenant will agree to Friendship Lodge Addendum to Tenancy Agreement and Friendship Lodge Standards
For applications/information please contact:
Prince George Native Friendship Centre
Friendship Lodge
Blaine Lestage, Coordinator
1656 Queensway, Prince George, BC V2L 3G6
Phone (250) 562-3004 Fax (250) 563-0924
Funded by BC Housing
Day Care Programs
At Little Friends Day Care and Skeh Baiyoh Day Care, our goal is to create and provide a culturally focused, safe, caring, learning environment for children by providing activities, which are suited towards each child's level of growth and development.
Our philosophy is to work collaboratively with families to help each child reach their full postential and establish a proud sense of self and excitement for a lifetime of learning and playing.
Our Day Cares are open to the community and we are excited to support and offer services to families in Prince George. We offer full time and part time child care spaces for children ages 2.5 to 5 years of age.
Our staff are licensed Early Childhood Educators and participate in ongoing training and education to ensure we are delivering quality programming to children and families. All staff has current First Aid and Food Safe training.
If you are interested in registering your child or would like more information about Little Friends Day Care, please contact:
Tammy Christie, Childcare Operations Manager
Phone (250) 645-5694 or Fax (250) 564-4956
Family Law Legal Advocacy Program
We work with families considering separation, separated caregivers, parents, grandparents or other family members seeking custody, very young parents; and families who are involved with the Ministry for Child and Family Development. We can assist you in setting reasonable goals and in navigating the court systems to obtain a legal solution. The Family Law Legal Advocacy Program provides free assistance to anyone with family law issues or questions. It’s important to note that services are offered by a legal advocate, not a lawyer. We provide information, referral, advocacy, court support, and assistance with legal form completion; in the following areas, so that community members can develop a plan to move forward:
• Parental arrangements, children’s rights, child protection
• Child or spousal support
• Separation and divorce, guardianship
• Protection orders
• Family Maintenance Enforcement and Protection (FMEP)
For more information, please contact:
Prince George Native Friendship Centre
Family Law Legal Advocacy Program
1600 - 3rd Avenue (3rd Floor), Prince George, BC V2L 3G6
Phone (250) 564-4324 or Fax (250) 614-7728
Email: lawadvocate@pgnfc.com
Funded by the Law Foundation of British Columbia
KETSO YOH
The Ketso Yoh Centre provides supports as well as temporary living facilities for men in need.
Consistent with the philosophy of the Prince George Native Friendship Centre, the Ketso Yoh Centre is operated in a manner that respects the individual's human rights.
Fundamental to this is the right of the resident to practice his culture and religion in an atmosphere free from threat - it being our philosophy that understanding one's cultural heritage is requisite if one is to develop as a person to his full potential.
The Ketso Yoh Facility:
• We provide 21 emergency shelter beds, 17 Alcohol & Drug Supportive Recovery beds, and 16
Supported Living beds daily (365 days a year);
• Three (3) meals a day, plus nightly snacks are provided to all residents;
• Bedding, towels, shampoo, disposable razor, comb, shaving cream, toothbrush and toothpaste are also provided;
• All standards required by health and fire by-laws are adhered to;
• Two (2) outreach teams are available 5 days a week;
• Third Party Outreach and Housing Outreach services are available;
• 24 hour daily drop-in centre is available for support and advocacy;
• Referrals to outside agencies are provided;
• A safe and clean environmentis provided;
• Staff are on duty 24/7, and ; and
• Standards for the different programs are provided to residents upon their arrival.
Admission Criteria:
• The shelter is available to adult males;
• Alcohol & Drug program is available by application, with a screening and admission process; and
• Supportive Living is available by application, for low income individuals who have been homeless for one (1) year or more and have challenges with mental health and/or addictions. Rent is required upon admission.
Outreach Services:
Outreach Services are provided through the Aboriginal Homeless Outreach and Homeless Outreach teams. These services are designed to help clients find, or stay in, suitable, affordable, safe living units. This service is also offered the community. An interactive housing list can be obtained to view available rental information within the community. Case planning and support to access the various resources needed by each person are provided.
Field Trips
Staff and residents go on serveral trips per year which may include:
• Swimming;
• Fishing;
• Hiking;
• Medicine gathering;
• Berry picking and;
• Day trips to Camp Friendship.
For more information, please contact:
PGNFC Ketso Yoh Centre
Stephan Ferreira, Coordinator
140 Quebec Street, Prince George, BC V2L 1W2
Phone (250) 563-1982 and Fax (250 563-0283
Funded by BC Housing, Northern Health, Service Canada and Ministry of Social Development
LEARNING CIRCLE LITERACY PROGRAM
What is Literacy?
Literacy is more than the ability to read and write. "A new and expanded vision of literacy is essential for success. Such renewed vision admits that literacy is not confined to any particular age, institution; that it is related to various dimensions of personal and social life and development; that it embraces a wide range of scenarios, strategies and means that it is a lifelong learning process" (UN Literacy Decade 2003-2012)
Our Goal
The Learning Circle Literacy Program (LCLP) serves adult learners, as well as youth and families seeking to improve their literacy, numeracy and computer skills.
We provide a safe, comfortable, learning environment with services which are confidential, supportive and professional.
How We Do This
• One-to-One Tutorial Sessions
• Pre-Prep GED Sessions
• Lending Library
• Basic Computer Training
• Educational Workshops
• Tutor Training
How Learners Benefit
LCLP provides educational materials which focuses on the learners specific needs:
• Reading a newspaper
• Getting a driver's license
• Reading to their children
For more information, contact:
Prince George Native Friendship Centre
Learning Circle Literacy Program (LCLP)
Sheryl Elgie, Employment & Training Team Lead
1600 - 3rd Avenue, Prince George, BC V2L 3G6
Phone (250) 564-3568, Ext. 278 and Fax (250) 563-0924
Funded by Ministry of Advanced Education
NATIVE HEALING CENTRE
The Native Healing Centre provides a holistic and culturally sensitive program to Indigenous and non-Indigenous people who live in Prince George, and who have been affected by trauma, addictions, or grief and loss.
We work together with our community partners, support groups and Elders to deliver programs that will meet the needs of individuals.
The Native Healing Centre`s philosophy and approach to healing is embodied in a basic set of principles which are reflected throughout the entire structure of the program. These principles are:
• The program is culturally sensitive and grounded in Indigenous values;
• The therapeutic interventions employ both traditional and non traditional techniques for healing;
• Healing involves the individual and their family, as well as the whole community;
Services:
• Alcohol & Drug Counselling
• One-on-one Counselling
• Drop-in and Crisis Support
One-on-One Counselling:
• Counselling for children and adults
• Educate clients, family members and community about the cycle of abuse and the importance of self-care.
Drug and Alcohol Counselling:
• Counselling for youth and adults working through their addictions;
• Assist clients with entry into a treatment facility; and
• Education for clients and their families about addictions and promotion of healthy lifestyles.
For more information, please contact:
Prince George Native Friendship Centre
Native Healing Centre
1600 - 3rd Avenue (3rd Floor), Prince George, BC V2L 3G6
Phone (250) 564-4324 Fax (250) 614-7728
Hours: Mon, Tues, Wed and Fri from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm & 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm Thursdays 9:00 am to Noon Closed Weekends and Statutory Holidays.
Funded by Northern Health
POWER OF FRIENDSHIP ABORIGINAL HEAD START
The Aboriginal Head Start (AHS) initiative is a Federally funded early intervention strategy which addresses the needs of young Indigenous children living in urban centres and in large Northern communities.
AHS is a comprehensive program designed to meet the spiritual, emotional, intellectual, and physical needs of the child.
Program Features:
Prince George Aboriginal Head Start and the Power of Friendship Head Start are pre-school programs where parents and/caregivers are on site participating in the programs. The programs include the following components:
• daily programs;
• culture and language;
• education;
• health promotion;
• nutrition;
• social support programs;
• parental involvement; and
• transporation.
We currently host two Aboriginal Head Start sites:
Prince George Aboriginal Head Start (PGAHS) provides Carrier language and curriculum to 40 Indigenous children every year.
Power of Friendship Aboriginal Head Start (POFAHS) provides Cree/Metis language and curriculum to 40 children every year.
Aboriginal Head Start Mandate:
• Foster the spiritual, emotional, intellectual, and physical growth of each child;
• Foster a desire in the child for life-long learning;
• Support parents and guardians as a the prime teachers and caregivers of their children, making sure parents/caregivers play a key role in the planning, development, operation, and evaluation of the program;
• Recognize and support extended families in teaching and caring for children;
• Make sure that the local Indigenous community is involved with planning, development, operation, and evaluation of the program;
• Make sure the initiative works with, and is supported by, other community programs and services; and
• Ensure the human and financial resources are used in the best way possible to produce positive outcomes and experiences for Indigenous children, parents, families, and communities.
For more information, please contact:
Prince George Native Friendship Centre
Leila Aubichon, Coordnator
Phone (250) 564-1840 Fax (250) 564-1842
Funded by Health Canada
Post Majority
ABORIGINAL HEAD START PROGRAMS
The Aboriginal Head Start (AHS) initiative is a Federally funded early intervention strategy which addresses the needs of young Indigenous children living in urban centres and in large Northern communities.
AHS a comprehensive program designed to meet the spiritual, emotional, intellectual, and physical needs of the child.
Program Features:
Prince George Aboriginal Head Start and the Power of Friendship Head Start are pre-school programs where parents and/caregivers are on site participating in the programs. The programs include the following components:
• daily programs;
• culture and language;
• education;
• health promotion;
• nutrition;
• social support programs;
• parental involvement;
• transporation.
We currently host two Aboriginal Head Start sites:
Prince George Aboriginal Head Start (PGAHS) provides Carrier language and curriculum to 40 Indigenous children every year.
Power of Friendship Aboriginal Head Start (POFAHS) provides Cree/Metis language and curriculum to 40 children every year.
Aboriginal Head Start Mandate:
• foster the spiritual, emotional, intellectual, and physical growth of each child;
• foster a desire in the child for life-long learning;
• support parents and guardians as a the prime teachers and caregivers of their children, making sure parents/caregivers play a key role in the planning, development, operation, and evaluation of the program;
• recognize and support extended families in teaching and caring for children;
• make sure that the local Indigenous community is involved with planning, development, operation, and evaluation of the program;
• make sure the initiative works with, and is supported by, other community programs and services; and
• ensure the human and financial resources are used in the best way possible to produce positive outcomes and experiences for Indigenous children, parents, families, and communities.
For the Prince George Aboriginal Head Start program (PGAHS) which provides Carrier langugage and curriculum
Prince George Native Friendship Centre
Jennifer Yarmish, Coordinator
Phone (250) 563-3884
For the Power of Friendship Aboriginal Head Start program (POFAHS) which provides Cree/Metis langugage and curriculum
Prince George Native Friendship Centre
Leila Aubichon, Coordinator
Phone (250) 564-1840
Funded by Health Canada
RECONNECT YOUTH VILLAGE
Reconnect Youth Village is a Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD) contracted program providing voluntary youth-centered service; provide safe, secure, stable and nurturing emergency drop-in shelter services, and daily integrated service programming to youth.
Mission Statement:
"We are a youth-centered team of advocates assisting in the empowerment of individuals in a culturally holistic environment which promotes healthy lifestyle choices and transitions".
Supportive Housing - Crisis/Short term:
• 24 Hours a day / 7 days a week. Six (6) beds, co-ed;
• Intake continuous throughout hours of operation;
• Shower and meals provided; and
• Transitions and referrals to appropriate services.
Supportive Housing - MCFD Placement:
• 24 Hours a day / 7 days a week support.
• MFCD referral and placement;
• Transitions and referrals to appropriate services.
Youth Drop-In Centre:
• 24 hours a day, 7 days a week;
• To provide interactive relationships with youth through positive role modeling;
• Provide meals, hygeine, support, leisure activities;
• Provide a safe and supportive environment where youth can meet their social need to effectively make positive changes in their lives; and
• Provide programming that promotes self-esteem, communication, life-skills, employment, and interpersonal skills.
Outreach Services:
• 24 Hours a day;
• Connecting youth individually to an Outreach Worker to assist in meeting their long term needs;
• To initiate integrated case management comprised of the Prince George Native Friendship Centre, Ministry of Children & Family Development, Youth Probation, School District No. 57, the youth's guardian, and community partners to decide on the best plan of care for the youth;
• To provide quality youth-centered services to vulnerable youth;
• To provide support and advocacy for youth;
• Refer youth and their families to appropriate resources within the community for medical, educational, counselling, treatment, or financial services; and
• To empower youth to make their own healthy decisions and use community resources more effectively with an integrated approach.
Street Outreach Services:
• 9 pm - 1 am, daily / or when a critical incident occurs;
• Connect with youth and make referrals for support;
• Foot and vehicle patrols;
• Offer youth rides as a safer alternative than the streets; and
• Inform guardians / residential resources the whereabouts of the youth.
Reconnect Youth Village offers a Supported Independent Living program through the My Way program that provides 6 spaces to youth in a communal style living environment. The program provides skills and training to assist youth for living on their own or reconnection with their family. Elders play a vital role in the programming. For more information on drop-in, shelter and advocacy for youth see the link
Services provided:
• Six (6) individual rooms
• Communal dining
• Laundry area
• Develop long-term living plans
• Establish community support plans
• Develop experience with independence
• Develop integrated aftercare plans
For more information, please contact:
Prince George Native Friendship Centre
Reconnect Youth Village
Kim James, Coordinator
171 George Street, Prince George, BC V2L 1P8
Phone (250) 562-2538 and Fax (250) 564-1432
Email: kjames@pgnfc.com
Funded by Ministry of Children and Family Development
Smokehouse Kitchen Program
The Smokehouse Kitchen Project is a four-month pre-employment/employment training program that offers cook "Level One Curriculum". This curriculum is designed to set participants up with the relevant prerequisites to “ladder” into a entry level position in the hospitality industry, pursue further culinary training, or continue on with a more streamlined academic focus(grade twelve/hospitality management).
The Smokehouse Kitchen Project is now made up of three distinct but interrelated components; culinary Arts, Baking & Pastry Arts and Theory.
Culinary:
The cooking part, if you will, will be just that. This portion of the program will operate during the hours of 8:30am until 4pm with classroom time taking place from 8:30 until 9:30 every Friday for testing. The theory components of the program will be two weeks on average (additional time will be allotted if deemed necessary). The Chef instructor will take eight of the participants while the remainder will be attending class with the Pastry Chef. In general students will focus on readying the restaurant for the day and preparing the restaurant for the next. Further, students will be encouraged to utilize the skills they have picked during classroom time in the afternoon.
Baking & Pastry Arts:
This will be comprised of a station that will operate out of the Smokehouse Kitchen. There will be two participants minimum on this station at all times. The participants working on the Pastry station will be responsible for all the baking required for a two-week period. These individuals will be responsible for reading the baking chapters in the ON Cooking text and will write a test on each of the Fridays.
Theory:
The texts used for the program will be On Cooking, the On Cooking study guide and the study manuals. These books contain CD Rom Tutorials and the students are encouraged to utilize the computer room time set aside to view the tutorial, as they are invaluable. The classroom portion would move along in a predetermined logical order to ensure that student have the required tools to move on the next topic. The material covered in the On Cooking text is plentiful and fast paced (two weeks is not a lot of time) students who are truant or miss classes will quickly fall behind. Those who miss three (3) classes will fail that component.
Further Theory:
The PGNFC has developed a partnership with School District #57 Continuing Education in our continual efforts to acknowledge and validate the participant’s training resulted in Continuing Education accrediting the training in the Program as equal to three of five courses toward the Adult Grade 12 Dogwood Diploma. Upon successful completion of work placements, employment preparation activities and attending the Master Students Program, the participants will also acquire credit for the final modules for the CAPA 12 courses, a require for grade 12 graduations. These credits will not only assist the participants in attending the Adult Dogwood Diploma, but they will also help in gaining entry into the Cook Training and the Hospitality Program at the College of New Caledonia.
Certificate Programs:
These courses are essential and along with the teachings derived from the On Cooking text, will form the core of the Smokehouse curriculum. Moreover, it will be these courses, delivered in the first two (2) weeks that will set the tone for the remainder of the program. The participants will not commence work in the kitchen without first successfully completing the Food Safe course. Other courses offered are as follows:
• First Aid
• Serving it Right
• First Host
• Super Host
• W.H.I.M.I.S; Work Safe-W.C.B
• Cash Register Training
Work Placements:
Two (2) weeks will be spent in a work placement. The work placements will tentatively start in the third week of class on though to the end of the course (this of course will be based on your readiness and availability of jobs). Please advise instructor in advance if there is somewhere inn particular you would like to go.
Fridays:
Information Workshops will be provided by the Employment Unit. These will run most Fridays for the life of the course. Workshops are not optional and must be attended in order to successfully complete the program. Workshops to be taken are as follows:
• Cover Letters;
• Resume Writing;
• Hidden Job Market;
• Networking Techniques;
• Internet Browsing; Email;
• On-line Job Search;
• Information Interviews;
• Personnel hygiene and Grooming;
• Basic Computer skills;
• Time Management
Examinations:
There will be two (2) exams during the life span of this course. The first will be at the midway point of the course around three (3) months the second at the end of the course. Each exam will be cumulative or based on what you have learned to that point.
For more information, please contact:
Smokehouse Kitchen Program
Alan O'Reilly, Executive Chef
1600 - 3rd Avenue, Prince George, BC V2L 3G6
Phone (250) 564-3568, Ext. 214 and Fax (250) 563-0924
Email: aoreilly@pgnfc.com
The Smokehouse Kitchen Project is Funded by:
The Prince George Nechako Aboriginal Employment and Training Association
The Smokehouse Kitchen is a Proud Member of PCTIA:
Private Career Training Institutions Agency
Tse`Koo Huba Yoh
The Prince George Native Friendship Centre has joined with BC Housing to operate a 17 unit supported housing for adult women, which will address the needs of women who face multiple barriers that keep them from living stably and independently. Tse'Koo Huba Yoh is designed to address the needs of the most vulnerable people in our community through the provision of an affordable and safe "home" supportive atmosphere thereby facilitating their transition to greater stability. All services are holistically designed and focused in minimizing these barriers by addressing the spiritual, emotional, mental and physical needs of the tenants therefore enabling them to have a greater quality of life and become healthy, active members of the community.
Some general information about Tse'Koo Huba Yoh:
• Has a Life Skills Worker on site 24 hours, 7 days a week
• 17 units which include a full bath, twin bed, small fridge and a microwave
• $375 per month (includes all utilities, laundry, and a local phone. Cable TV and telephone hook-ups in each room; option use at tenant's expense)
• Tenant must be eligible for Rent Subsidy
• Length of stay is based on case management with the individual tenant and the outcome is that the individual will be able to live independently
• Tenant will be currenly accessing support services (referral)
• Tenant must have some form of stabilization (i.e. Detox, supportive recovery) and/or have the ability to live independently
• Tenant will agree to Tse'Koo Huba Yoh Addendum to tenancy Agreement as well as Tse'Koo Huba Yoh Standards.
For more information, please contact:
Prince George Native Friendship Centre
Tse'Koo Huba Yoh
Jackie Campbell, Coordinator
1600 - 3rd Avenue, Prince George, BC V2L 3G6
Phone (250) 564-6454 and Fax (250) 564-6453
Funded by BC Housing
Computer Services Department
The PGNFC Computer Services Department offers fast and efficient service for:
• Computer repairs, support, and training
• Full service photocopying (Colour and Black)
• Scanning
• Desktop publishing
• Business Cards
• Pamphlets and Booklets
• Up to 11x17 Posters
• Memorial Cards
• Laminating up to 24” wide
• Comb Binding
• Plastic Cover Binding
For more information, please contact:
Prince George Native Friendship Centre
Amber Hipkis, Computer Services Coordinator
1600 3rd Avenue, Prince George, BC V2L 3G6
Phone: (250) 564-3568 (ext. 130)
ahipkiss@pgnfc.com
Monday to Friday 9:00am - 4:00pm
Closed Statutory Holidays
Aboriginal Child & Youth Wellness Program
Aboriginal Infant & Family Development Program
Aboriginal Supported Child Development Program
My Way Youth Program
Shelter Programs
Camp Friendship
Victim Services Program
Cultural Advisor
Elder's Activities
Emergency Resources/Volunteer Program
Employment - Aboriginal Career Development
For Us By Us - Youth In Care Network
Friendship Home
Friendship Lodge
Day Care Programs
Family Law Legal Advocacy Program
Ketso Yoh
Learning Circle Literacy Program
Native Healing Centre
Power of Friendship Aboriginal Head Start
Post Majority
Aboriginal Head Start Programs
Reconnect Youth Village
Smokehouse Kitchen Program
Tse 'Koo Huba Yoh
Computer Service Department
PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
We offer a variety of programs and services for the community from infant to elders. For more information on individual programs and services see the links below.