Programs - SPIRIT WAY

Are you ready for second-stage housing and healing?

SPIRIT WAY’S goal is to help Aboriginal women become independent by providing them with the opportunity to make their own choices, arrange for their own needs, access community services and become involved in their community.

We believe that family violence is a learned behaviour, and that it can be unlearned and replaced with healthy non-violent behaviours. We begin this process by providing a sanctuary for victims in an alcohol and drug free environment. Women must have a safe and nurturing place to recover from the loss of self-esteem and direction. Ultimately, Helping Spirit Lodge Society seeks to regain the traditional, respected position of women
in our communities.

We provide supportive, affordable housing for 14 families on a month-to-month basis for a period of eighteen months. Programs and services are offered to assist the women residents in gaining the skills, information and confidence they need to take control of their own future, and support their children in a healthy caring environment.

Contact us for information on the SPIRIT WAY program.

History Of SPIRIT WAY

In November, 1996, Helping Spirit Lodge Society received a Conditional allocation from the British Columbia Housing Management Commission November 7, 1996 under Homeless At Risk Component of HOMES BC for a 14 unit Project.

On June 21, 2000, HSLS celebrated a West Coast traditional groundbreaking ceremony for the Aboriginal woman’s 14-unit second-stage housing project. It was named SPIRIT WAY to reflect the courageous journey the participants would be undertaking to stop their cycle of violence and begin a resurgence of wellness.

On April 30, 2001, SPIRIT WAY house was traditionally blessed by Elder Bob George from the Burrard First Nations people.

On June 21, 2001 SPIRIT WAY Officially opened its doors. Elder Theresa Jeffries from Seschelt Village offered prayers and song for this special
occasion.

SPIRIT WAY Housing

SPIRIT WAY has 14 fully furnished residential units:

• Four 1-bedroom
• Four 2-bedrooms
• Five3-bedrooms
• One 4-bedroom
• Handicap suite available(1 bedroom)

SPIRIT WAY Programs

Our programs combine both culturally appropriate and mainstream methods of healing. We use holistic healing methods based on the First Nation's culture including cultural and spiritual ceremonies and teachings of the medicine wheel.

Over 90 wellness and educational workshops and activities in the following categories are available to SPIRIT WAY residents:

• Family Violence
• Aboriginal Culture
• Spiritual Balance
• Family & Education
• Children's Activities
• Youth Activities
• Health and Wellness
• Lifeskills/Personal Empowerment
• Certificate Courses (CHOICES)
• Employment Skills

Who’s Eligible

Helping Spirit Lodge Society continually accepts applications and referrals for residency at our second stage housing program.

Priority is given to women who have experienced physical, sexual, and/or emotional abuse within the context of an intimate relationship and who are currently or have recently stayed in a first stage transition houses.

Our residents are women who:

• Are committed to living in an adult female oriented environment.
• Are ready to make choices on their healing journey.
• Agree to a clean and sober healthy lifestyle.
• Want to change their lifestyle for the betterment of their future with their children.
• Agree and understand the policy that “No Males are Allowed on the Premises including family members”.

How to Apply

Contact us for information on applying for the SPIRIT WAY program.

An application form can be sent to you and eligible candidates will be contacted for an interview.