SONGHEES COMMUNITY NEWSLETTER J U L Y 2 0 2 1 NEWSLETTER

CommunIn this Issue ity General Meeting In this Issue Election Results - Page 2 DATE: JULY 13, 2021 Food Security - Page 3 RETRO GAMES FOR TIMETHE: 6:00 WEEKEND PM - 3 Clean & Green Yard Contest Winners - Page 4

WHERE: WELLNESS CENTRE Education - Pages 5-7

Health - Pages 8-10 AGENDA Lands - Page 11

6:00 PM - WELCOME FROM CHIEF SAM Job Postings - Pages 12-18

6:15 PM TO 7:30 PM - DEPARTMENT TABLES/INFORMATION Explore Songhees - Page 19 SHARING FNHA Cultural Supports - Page 20

6:15 PM TO 7:00 PM - LIGHT BBQ DINNER AVAILABLE (HOT DOGS, HAMBURGERS, CHIPS, WATERMELON, WATER) SONGHEES ELECTION RESULTS

2 FOOD SECURITY

The Superstore Food Cards have been extended for July, August and September Cards will continue to have a value of 250.00

An expression of need will now be required from each household on a monthly basis.

Please click on the link to complete this short survey to submit your expression of need. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WKH3GQ7

If you have a smartphone, you can hover over the QR Code with your camera to access the survey, please make sure you hold the camera still and give it a couple seconds to read the code

WE HAVE A NEW PROCESS IN PLACE There will be 2 options for receiving the food card moving forward: E-Link (gift card sent to you by email) on July 28 In-person pick-up from the SWC on July 28 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm only There will be no on-reserve deliveries

Congratulations to the Winners We are cheering for you as you reach for your dreams!

Dream Job Winners

Honorable Mention Tracey Anne George (Home Daycare) Grand Prize Winners Melissa Barnard (Cultural Researcher) Aaliyah George (Pediatrician) Neveah Sam-Charlie (Language Teacher) Theresa Novak (Emergency Social Services) 3 CLEAN & GREEN CONTEST WINNERS Everyone who entered the Clean & Green Contest did such an awesome job! Big Congrats to all who participated!

Our Winners!

1st place - Jack Noni Horne & Eva George 2nd place - Vincent Dick & Christine F W Prevost 3 rd place - Sandy, Tiffany Charleson-George, Janice & Joe!

4 kʷamk̓ ʷəm̓ éʔləŋ

WINNERS

The Busy Bee Awards at KKE is an incentive program to reward students for all of their hard work at homework club. We draw names for small prizes throughout the year and 3 big prizes at the end. Our June 2021 prizes and winners are: Camera Package: Macaylee Charlie

Bike Package: Carter Donaldson

Chromebook Package: Haydn Morris

CONGRATULATIONS!

5 Congratulations to these Songhees Grade 8 students for completing Middle School! Dion george Weslee joe Cameron Joseph Tristan lafortune Ava Malcolm-Joseph Selene Malcolm-sam Percy Mcgee-frank Jared rice jodi thompson

6 The Songhees You Rock Awards is an incentive program for Songhees students which enables school staff to help us acknowledge outstanding performance at school and recognize the following traits:

It is awarded 3 times per school year, at winter break, spring break, and summer break. One student is chosen from each age group: Elementary, Middle and High School. The 3 winners each term receive a framed certificate and a $75 Mayfair gift card! Nominees receive a certificate and small gift as well! Here is a list of all of the nominees:

ELEMENTARY MIDDLE HIGH SCHOOL Blake Baker AJ Joe Aiyana Dick-Charleson Cohen Peters Ava Malcolm-Joseph Claudette George Grace LaFortune Ellen Sam Cyrus George-Fisher Leigh-Annah Sam Desirae Tom Haydn Morris Naomi LeBreton Gabe Sam Kaeden Donaldson Sarah Charleson-George Georgia Staab Kayla Thompson Sheldon Sam Gordie Goldsmith LaVatta Frank Jodi Thompson Logan Louie Leland Thompson Malajah Thompson-Sam Lylyan Modeste-Prevost Samantha George Peter Modeste-Prevost Shelby Sam Selene Malcolm-Sam Tristan LaFortune Weslee Joe

Elementary: Blake Baker Middle: AJ Joe High School: Cyrus George-Fisher Big congrats to all of our nominees and winners! Keep up the good work!

7 HEALTH UPDATES

The Songhees Wellness Centre Fitness Studio continues to be only open to Songhees Nation members and their families. The Summer hours will remain: Monday - Wednesday: 10 am - 7 pm, Thursday: 10 am- 5 pm, Friday - Sunday: Closed

Capacity has increased, however, all members will continue to be required to schedule a time. The hope is to be back to regular full-time hours with fob access in September. Your patience is appreciated as we safely transition back into full-time programs and services.

Quick Recreation Notes:

**Any Songhees youth 13+ interested in Outdoor Recreation activities in August? If so, please connect and express interest by July 15th **

**Songhees Nation now has completed a dirt pump track in the field for community use! Have fun riding your bike, however, remember helmets must be worn at all times and is used at your own risk **

**Anyone wanting to harvest salad greens, vegetables and herbs from the community rooftop garden, please reach out to arrange a time**

To sign up or with any questions or concerns contact: [email protected]

NOTICES FROM NURSE HAYLEY

Nurse Hayley will be away from July 23-August 2, inclusive.

Also, the Shingrix shingles vaccine is now covered by FNHA for Elders who are 65 years of age or older. Anyone interested in receiving this vaccine or learning more about it can contact Nurse Hayley

JOBS AVAILABLE WITHIN FNHA

FNHA is hiring 4 Data Collectors (VI region) for the upcoming Regional Health Survey and the job posting is now up and running. There will be 20 data collectors in total with 4 individuals hired for each health region. To learn more please visit - https://careers.fnha.ca/psc/careers/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM_FL.HRS_CG_SEARCH_FL.GBL? FOCUS=Applicant&Page=HRS_APP_JBPST_FL&JobOpeningId=504457&PostingSeq=1&SiteId=2

If you have any inquiries or issues please contact FNHA Recruitment at [email protected] or 1-844-699-3186.

8 9 July Recreation: Youth Sport Skills - 5:00pm (ages 8-12) “Soccer, Lacrosse, Basketball” Youth Rec Ride - 1:00pm ages 10 and up “Bring your own bike or borrow one” 2021 Family Open Gym -5:00pm “Family gym time & all ages welcome” Indoor Soccer- “ Come kick around at Adult Indoor Soccer” Elders Movement - 10:30-11:30am “Time for Moving and Grooving” *At this time, all participants must sign up through email: [email protected]

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3

4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Youth Sports- 5pm Rec Bike Ride- 1pm Zumba- 6pm Elders Movement- Yoga 6pm Family Open Gym-5pm Indoor Soccer- 7pm 10:30am

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Youth Sports- 5pm Community AGM -6pm Zumba 6pm Elders Movement- Yoga 6pm Indoor Soccer 7pm 10:30am

18 19 20 21 22 23 24 Youth Sports- 5pm Rec Bike Ride- 1pm Yoga 6pm Family Open Gym- 5pm Indoor Soccer 7pm

25 26 27 28 29 30 31 No Facilitated Rec No Facilitated Rec No Facilitated Rec No Facilitated Rec Programs this week. Programs this week. Programs this week. Programs this week. Will resume in August :) Will resume in August :) Will resume in August :) Will resume in August :) 10 Council Bulletin MANAGING DEVELOPMENT ON SONGHEES LANDS

Chief and Council are aware that Songhees members have concerns about new development and potential impacts on the community. Council is committed to planning future land use and managing development in the best interest of the Nation. We have started a process to review and update our laws for managing development and guiding future land use of Songhees lands.

Proposed Development Council’s Priorities In May, 2021, a vote at a Meeting of Members approved Council’s priorities for land use and land management are: mortgages of over 25 years for leases on the Thomas Seeing the Nation’s lands developed in a manner that st • Family and JPA Mobile Home Park CP lands. On May 31 , benefits the Nation, makes better use of the land, and Tribeworks Creative, acting on behalf of the CP holders, supports a long-term and cohesive vision for all approached Council about seeking the community’s input Songhees lands. on potential development ideas. No specific plans or • Supporting members who hold CPs in pursuing applications have been submitted to the Nation. economic opportunities that are compatible with the interests of the Nation and membership. Local Area Plan • Encouraging development that is consistent with the Council has started a process to develop a local area land interests of the Nation and provides net benefits to use plan, which will guide future decision-making in the the Nation. plan area (see below) based on the community’s vision for these lands. This process is being led by Songhees Development Review & Decision-Making The Nation will review and make decisions on Council, not the developers, and we will be engaging the development proposals in an open, transparent, fair, and membership over the next few months. Barefoot Planning consistent manner guided by the Nation’s Land Code, will be facilitating this process on behalf of the Nation. Zoning Bylaw, policies and regulations, and the interests When it’s ready, the local area plan will be put to a vote at of the Nation. Council will promote awareness of a Meetings of Members – likely before the end of 2021. development proposals, provide opportunities for the membership to provide input, and will consider input from the community in making decisions on development proposals.

For additional information contact:

Jeannie Pelkey Songhees Nation Lands Manager [email protected] 250-386-1043 ext 206

COUNCIL BULLETIN | JULY 2021

11 Songhees Youth and Living Lab Project - Summer 2021 FUN YOU are invited! Living Lab Eco-Youth Interns, Youth Summer Camps and Tl’Ches Restoration

There are several opportunities coming up for Songhees youth and outdoor fun activities and learning this summer. Through the Songhees Education Department in partnership with the community-campus (UVic) Living Lab Project we are offering three programs. Read below for more info and get in touch with us if you want more info!!

#1. Songhees Living Lab Summer Youth Eco-Program Interns (2 positions available) SALARY: $16.00 per hour HOURS OF WORK: 30 hours per week DATES OF WORK: Five weeks July 12 – July 31st and August 9-20th, 2021 CLOSING DATE: Apply by July 4 th, 2021 at 5PM / Cover letter and resume written to Songhees Living Lab Team: Attention-Lyndsey Joseph ( Songhees Living Lab Liaison) . For more info contact Lyndsey Joseph, Living Lab staff and Songhees Liaison at [email protected] / Background Info: https://livinglabproject.ca/

Job Summary: The Songhees Living Lab Youth Summer Interns will work closely as a team along with other regional youth from Lekwungen and WSANEC communities and community-campus staff. They will participate in the new regional Living Lab eco-youth outdoor programs July 12-15th and August 15-19 focused on hands on environmental/cultural restoration and experiential learning/skills building throughout Lekwungen and WSANEC territories. The Interns will also help lead the Lekwungen youth camps happening July 19-22nd and August 8-11th. Most, if not all summer programming will take place outdoors. Duties and Responsibilities: • Under the supervision of the Songhees/Living Lab staff, Songhees Summer Youth Interns will participate and engage in the Regional Youth Program and help facilitate the Lekwungen summer camps and support younger participants. They will maintain COVID-safety protocols when working on-site as recommended by the BCCDC (i.e. wear mask, wash/sanitize hands frequently, frequent cleaning of shared and personal spaces). • Communicate openly with supervisor and other team members. • Other duties as assigned. Qualifications: • Must be between the ages of 15-30 • Keen on environmental and cultural restoration * Has a social insurance number • Energetic • Knows how to interact with children • Works well on a team • Has initiative and new ideas • Basic understanding of technology (knows how to take pictures and videos) • Positive and open attitude • Ready to learn new things • Respectful

#2. Lekwungen Youth Summer Living Lab Outdoor Camps Dates: July 19-22 and August 8-11th Time: 10-3PM each day. Recommended Ages (Youth): 12-20? This fun and interactive camp will be completely outdoors and each day will feature visiting a new place in Lekwungen territory for learning about history, culture, science and the environment. Lekwungen community members and community partners will share their stories and skills and youth will have hands-on learning and experiences on the land, waterways and ocean. The camps are free and include lunches.

#3. Tl’Ches Restoration Youth Teams - Songhees Youth Restoring Ancestral Lands Time: Ongoing beginning in Summer 2021. Living Lab and Songhees Education is supporting the Tl’Ches Restoration work and welcomes energetic youth and youthful adults to participate in supporting hands-on restoration on the Tl’Ches Songhees reserve Islands. Clearing blackberries and recovering native plants while learning about the rich cultural history of the place through archaeology are key focus areas for the Summer of 2021. A daily honoraria for youth participation is provided.

For more Information or questions about these opportunities contact Lyndsey Joseph – Living Lab staff and Songhees Liaison - [email protected]

12 Songhees Nation Job Posting

JOB TITLE: Family Advocate Director of Health and Reports to: Salary Scale: TBD Social Services Department: Health and Social Services Deadline: July 19th, 2021

POSITION SUMMARY:

Under the Direction of the Director of Health and Social Services the Family Advocate performs a variety of roles to support the Songhees First Nation (SFN) Health Department to ensure comprehensive coordination for designated clients and their families while working collaboratively with other health care providers and multidisciplinary teams.

KEY JOB DUTIES:

• Ensures and helps to navigate a fair MCFD processes. • Attend home visits/meetings as Songhees Nation member advocate with MCFD. • Takes initiative to fill in gaps, to best support families – includes collaboration with other partnering agencies. • Ability to advocate for clients and their families. • Attend court with clients and families. • Inform the community/members about MCFD’s role and responsibilities and the communities rights to ensure appropriate practices are adhered to. REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: • Knowledge of the Lekwungen and surrounding communities. • Knowledge of BC’s child welfare system and Songhees Nation/Indigenous traditional parenting. • Knowledge of local indigenous and non-indigenous resources. • Excellent public relations, oral and written; Interpersonal and leadership skills. • Demonstrated ability to work in a team environment with minimal supervision. • Willingness to learn new skills and upgrade qualifications. • Ability to deal tactfully with sensitive issues and always maintain confidentiality. • Ability to type and efficiently and effectively utilize personal computer, Including Microsoft Suite programs. • Valid Class 5 Drivers License. • Ensure all work and activities within department are conducted in a safe and presentable manner. REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: • Bachelor’s Degree in social work, or Indigenous Family Support Program Degree. • Minimum 2 years of experience working in a family support capacity. • Knowledge of, or experience working in the traditional Lekwungen Territories. • Valid BC Driver’s License, driver’s abstract clearance and criminal record check clearance. • First Aid, CPR, and Foodsafe – or a willingness to obtain. WORK CONDITIONS • Office and occasional travel to attend meetings or conferences. • Manual dexterity required to use desktop computer and peripherals. • Occasional odd hours due to emergency calls

Please send resumes to: Felicity Peters, Human Resource Manager Songhees Nation Phone 250-386-1043 ext.114 Email: [email protected]

1100 Admirals Road Victoria, BC V9A 2P6 Phone 250-386-1043 Fax 250-386-4161 13 Songhees Nation Job Posting Permanent full-time

JOB TITLE: Local Services Assistant Reports to: Lands Manager Department: Local Services Posting Closing July 05th, 2021 Salary scale: TBD date

POSITION SUMMARY:

Reporting to the Lands Manager, the Local Services Assistant acts as the administrative point of contact between the Local Services and internal/external clients. The Assistant provides personalized secretarial and administrative support in a well-organized and timely manner to the Local Services Department. In addition, the Local Services Assistant will assist with policy and law development, liaise and establish relationships with 3rd party organizations. This role is also responsible for the lands registry processes.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: • Receive calls, take messages • Receive, record and distribute incoming mail • Maintain Outlook Calendar, arrange meetings and appointments and provide reminders • Prepare letters and documents for signature as needed • Prepare minutes for meetings when/if needed • Monitor office supplies, and order through proper channels • Develop and carry out an efficient document and electronic filing system • Ensure documents are filed accurately and in a timely manner • Liaise between parties with regard to land development/use • Assist with policy development, laws and enforcements • Assist with establishing relationships with 3rd party organizations • Other duties as requested by Lands Manager • Manage the lands registry system and entries

WORKING CONDITIONS: • Busy office setting. • Manual dexterity required to use desktop computer and peripherals. • Interacts with public at large. • Sitting for long periods, and Repetitive work.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: • Knowledge of MS Office suite and High level verbal and written communications skills • Exemplary planning and time management skills • Ability to multitask and prioritize daily workload • Discretion, tact and confidentiality

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: • Completion of grade 12.

PLEASE SEND RESUMES TO THE HR MANAGER: Felicity Peters [email protected]

1100 Admirals Road Victoria, BC V9A 2P6 Phone 250-386-1043 Fax 250-386-4161

14 Do you have maintenance skills? Are you under 30? Would you like to join the team at Parks Canada? We are hoping to find a new member of our assets team at Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse. These two National Historic Sites are nestled between the Harbour and Esquimalt Lagoon on the Salish Sea. While the sites commemorate over 160 years of history, we acknowledge that ləkʷəŋə� n People have called these lands home for many, many generations. In the spring, the Garry Oak Learning Meadow is bursting with camas flowers, a nod to the important role these lands played for community and harvest long ago.

On a typical work day, you arrive early in the morning as the early light wakes the site up – the birds are singing and the deer peer out from tall grass of the meadow. You greet your friendly and supportive team who are keen to establish the plan for the day and distribute tasks. Working in maintenance has a nice balance of variety and routine, so there’s always something interesting to do, whether it’s enhancing nesting structures, minor building repairs, or landscaping tasks. You may help open the site, opening doors to numerous historic buildings, or you may help remove invasive species, or support your team in compliance and safety checks. It’s not always pretty work, there are trashes to be changed and critters to clean up after. The days are long and busy, but rewarding as it’s easy to see all you have accomplished.

If you love working as a fast moving, collaborative team, spending long days outdoors immersed in fresh coastal air, and learning new skills while sharing your own, this may be a good fit for you. Here is a list of qualifications we’re looking for:

Education: Have you graduated from high school, or have a nice combination of education, training and experience? Maybe you have a community member who has mentored you? Perhaps you don’t have formal training but have always been the one people come to for minor repairs or yard work? That will do!

Experience: Do you have experience looking after a building? Performing minor repairs? Looking after grounds and landscaping? We’d like you to have about a year’s experience in each of these, but let’s talk – maybe you have other skills that will be a good fit!

Knowledge: Keeping you safe at work is important to us. We hope you can tell us what you know about safety practices, what sort of things are in place, or have you used to perform tasks safely. Let us know what you know about basic maintenance and landscaping techniques – are you a whiz with a weed whacker? Do you know just the right tool for the job?

Abilities: We’re hoping that you have some handy skills to share with us. Tell us what you can do!

• Are you comfortable working safely with the right equipment for the right job? • Can you follow instructions, specifications and safety guidelines? • The job is physically demanding at times, are you able to lift, haul and carry? • Are you able to complete a variety of grounds keeping tasks such as maintenance of shrubs, trees and lawns for extended amounts of time?

15 Personal Suitability: Teamwork is an essential part of the role, as you’re work both independently and with your team. We’re looking for someone who is dependable, takes initiative, and makes good choices. Being able to get along with the rest of the gang is key – the team is fun, positive and ready for action and we hope you are too!

The Details:

• It’s a 40 hour work week. We prefer it to be 4 10 hour days but there is flexibility here. • A typical day 7am to 5:30pm, but a 5 day week would be closer to 7am to 3:30pm • You’ll need a driver’s licence • You’ll need to pass a security clearance • You’ll need to wear a Parks Canada uniform. • You may work weekends and holidays • You’ll work outside for most of the day in all sorts of weather • Starting salary is about $23-24/hr • The temporary position will be for about 3 months • This position is for youth under 30

The Program:

The lands and buildings we administer at Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse are for everyone’s enjoyment, reflection and learning. It is important to us that the team that helps look after these lands reflects the diverse group of people who visit the site. The Youth Employment and Skills Strategy is a program that helps facilitate and support diversity by providing work opportunities to youth with a particular focus on serving those who may be facing barriers or are under-represented youth.

Next Steps:

Get in touch with Duncan Yeo, Asset Support Technician to find out more. He can be reached at: [email protected] Cell: 1-(236)-464-1643

16 Get ahead with trades Training

There has never been a better time to enter the trades. Kick start your career in the trade that is right for you.

Funding for the Indigenous People in Trades Training initiative (IPTT) is provided through the Canada– British Columbia Workforce Development Agreement.

The IPTT program is open to eligible Indigenous people of all ages, backgrounds and skill levels. Funding offers assistance to cover tuition, books and tools to those that are eligible.

Camosun, through our Indigenous Peoples in Trades Training office, offers two different trade avenues: •Trades Skills Foundation for Indigenous peoples program, and/or

•Direct entry into one of Camosun’s skilled Trades Foundation programs

Trade Skills Foundation (exploratory program)

Participants will work in the classroom and various shops exploring a variety of trades, career paths, industry demands and safety practices/training. Trades covered may include:

•Automotive

•Carpentry

•Electrical

•Fine Furniture

•Plumbing

•Professional Cook

•Sheet Metal

Program Schedule:

•Length: 12 weeks

•Days: Tuesday-Friday, 8:30am-3pm (days/times/location/subject to change with adequate notice)

•Location: Camosun College, Interurban Campus (map)

Program Start Dates: (Limited seating available)

•TBD

If you are interested in this program, please contact

Susan Wilson, Coordinator, Phone 250-370-4779, Text 250-507-4796, Email: [email protected]

Larry Underwood, Coordinator, Phone - 250-370-4778, Text - 250-507-2158,

Email [email protected]

17 Songhees Development Corporation Job Description

JOB TITLE: Economic Development Coordinator Songhees Development Reports to: CEO Company: Corporation POSITION SUMMARY: This position supports the economic development activities of Songhees Development Corporation and its subsidiary companies.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Provide Administrative support to the Board of Directors for SDC and subsidiary companies, develop and distribute board packages, process travel claims and Directors fees, distribute documents for signature

Contribute to strategic partnership development, attend meetings and events, develop relationships, conduct ongoing communication, maintain a record of partnership activities

Support media engagement, work with media consultant to develop press releases, respond to media enquiries, maintain a record of media engagement, act as spokesperson as directed by CEO

Support social media engagement, develop content for posting, liaise with staff responsible for internal and external communications, monitor public engagement with SDC posts.

Liaise with Songhees Nation Finance Department for accounting services, prepare and submit cheque requisitions, purchase orders and receipts.

Liaise with Songhees Development Corporation Subsidiary Company employees, facilitate access to employee benefits and support services, receive time sheets. Assist with recruiting.

Provide logistical support for projects, sourcing and procuring supplies and materials.

WORKING CONDITIONS: Office, Field, Frequent Meetings, some travel

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

Strong written and verbal communications skills, interest business and economic development. Working knowledge of MC Office tools. Administrative and Clerical Skills. Sound judgement and ability to work independently, make decisions, develop strategies and manage a busy schedule. REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Work experience in a business or office environment. Highschool Diploma. Post-secondary education an asset..

How to Apply: The opportunity to apply for this position will expire on July 19, 2021. If you are interested in applying for this position, please submit your resume to [email protected]

The Economic Development Coordinator position is considered a position of trust; therefore, a Criminal Record Check must be provided. 18 EXPLORE SONGHEES TOURISM UPDATE

Reflecting on the June 8th Drum Circle Event

Thank you to all who attended the June 8th Drum Circle at the Legislature lawns. Having the presence of so many Songhees Members enriched the message that this is our time to heal. The response from all attending Nations was heartwarming and we are grateful to the Government officials who attended while respecting the request they do so as witnesses. If you haven’t seen the video from this day, you can find it on the Explore Songhees Facebook Page or at this link: https://tinyurl.com/2dvh3ezb. Summer Launch at Ship Point in Victoria Harbour

The Explore Songhees Kiosk is up and running at Ship Point in the Inner Harbour and we’re happy to welcome Haydn Morris and Kwasun Cook-Thomas to the team. Haydn joins us as Kiosk Attendant and Kwasun is taking care of Social Media.

The Kiosk serves as starting point for the cultural tours and as a bannock bar and satellite gallery and is open every Thursday-Saturday from 11:30 am- 6 pm and Sunday 11:30 am-4 pm over the summer. The kiosk will soon be joined by a food cart recently acquired with funding from Indigenous Tourism BC. Stay tuned for updates.

We hope Songhees members will register to join a tour during the Summer to see how the Nation is represented through storytelling. Follow Explore Songhees on Facebook for more information and to book your spot on a tour free of charge.

The call for artists is still open!

Explore Songhees is still seeking artists interested in joining artists row this summer. If you are unable to join artist row, there is also the opportunity to display and sell art and jewellery at the kiosk. Interested artists can contact Christina Clarke (email below) for more information.

Memorandum of Reconciliation with the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority Chief Sam recently sent a letter to the GVHA requesting to enter into a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that allows Lekwungen canoes and other vessels to move freely and dock in the harbour without permits. It was also proposed that the southeast corner be officially renamed Protocol Corner to represent our traditional place of welcome. The terms are currently being established and it is expected that the MOU, which is being referred to as a Memorandum of Reconciliation, will be completed and take effect officially this Fall.

August Cultural Daycamps on Tl’ches

Explore Songhees has been working on a Cultural Day Camp series on Tl’ches for Songhees members. To kick off the program we are arranging visits to the islands on August 21, 22 and 23rd. These days are dedicated to exploring the beauty and story of the islands for all who’ve yet to experience them or to provide an opportunity for those who would like to revisit to learn about the archaeology and conservation programs currently in progress. Included in the program will be a traditional foods workshop.

There are 24 spots per day (72 total) on the August dates with plans to carry out more opportunities in September to ensure no one misses out. All those who attend the day camp will be invited to join a cultural story-telling workshop in the Spring of 2022.

For more information, please email [email protected]

19 Community Mental Health and Cultural Supports— Esquimalt, Songhees, Scia’new, T’Sou-ke, Tsawout, Tsartlip, Tseycum, Pauquachin, Malahat, Metis

MENTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS Crisis Line Monique Pat-250-480-8333 TELEPHONE & ONLINE SUPPORT 1-888-494-3888 (24/7) OTHER RESOURCES & SUPPORTS Tsow-Tun-Le-Lum Society Mid Island Métis Association Virtual Substance Use and Psychi- 1-888-403-3123 250-585-7441 atry Service. A free, referral-based Vancouver Island Crisis Society https://www.vicrisis.ca. Crisis chat 7 Legal Aid BC service for First Nations people in BC nights a week from 6:00—10:00 p.m. 1-866-577-2525 and their family members. Health Vancouver Island Crisis Text Services Native Court Worker 1-250-800-3806. Text this number, available 1-877-811-1190 ext. 356 care providers, including the Virtual 7 nights a week from 6:00-10:00 p.m. For more information please call 1-604-816- Mental Health Support Line Doctor of the Day program, can refer 9070 or email [email protected]. 310-6789 you to this service. Available Monday This information is up to date as of COMMUNITY-BASED MENTAL June 2, 2021. to Friday. FNHA.ca/VirtualHealth HEALTH & WELLNESS SUPPORTS

KUU-US Crisis Services is available Victoria Mental Health Centre 24/7 to support Indigenous people. (Island Health) https://www.kuu-uscrisisline.com 250-370-8175 Toll-Free: 1-800-KUU-US-17 (1-800- 588-8717) Victoria Native Friendship Centre Adult/Elder: 1-250-723-4050 250-384-3211 Child/Youth: 1-250-723-2040 Foundry Victoria (mental health FNHA First Nations Health Bene- and substance use supports for fits Mental Health Provider List youth ages 12-24) First Nations Health Benefits pro- vides coverage for clients to attend 250-383-3552 virtual and in-person counselling ses- sions. See Mental Health in Health Aborginal Child and Youth Mental Benefits: https://www.fnha.ca/ Health (MCFD) Documents/FNHA-First-Nations- 778-974-4258 Health-Benefits-Mental-Health- Provider-List.pdf. Canadian Mental Health Associa- tion Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868 250-216-4228 First Nations and Inuit Hope for Wellness Help Line and On-line Aboriginal Health Liaison Nurses Counselling Services 1-855-242-3310 Cathy Condy-250-812-1464 20