Quw'utsun Newsletter - January 2023

A Message from Chief Hwitsum (January 2023)

Iyus Xew's Sil'anum (Happy New Year)

I want to start by saying how fantas c it was to see approx. 600 Quw’utsuns a end our December 1st Quw’utsun Community Christmas Dinner at the Si’em Lelum Gymnasium. Over the course of the evening a endees were treated to a beau ful dinner prepared with love by our cooks and an incredible musical performance by Nate Harris. They also enjoyed fes ve photos at the photo booth. Santa was also on hand and I appreciated seeing kids of all ages joining in the fun! I raise my hands to all of the cooks and our staff who worked so hard to make this event a success.

I want to highlight the work that Jodee Dick, CEO of Khowutzun Development Corpora on and I have been doing to advocate on behalf of our ci zens and ci zen owned businesses to secure work and contracts on the new Cowichan District Hospital project. We issued a statement in early December in light of opportuni es passing by Cowichan contractors and a demonstra on at the site. Read the full statement here.

We have since spoken with Premier David Eby. I hope to be able to report back soon that ac ons are being taken to address the commitments we have been discussing with the Ministry of Health, Island Health, BCIB and the general contractor for months. The new Cowichan District Hospital is an important project for all residents in the Cowichan Valley. It is also an opportunity for the province to build rela onships and advance economic reconcilia on with our community. Cowichan Tribes and Khowutzun Development Corpora on remain commi ed to working with partners to secure employment and contract opportuni es for Cowichan ci zens on this project.

I also travelled to O awa in December to a end the Assembly of First Na ons Special Chiefs Assembly. There were many key topics of discussion, including:

Agreeing to combine two resolu ons in order to compensate people harmed by the underfunded on‐reserve child‐welfare system.  An emergency resolu on was passed rejec ng the federal government’s gun legisla on due to the impact of banning some hun ng rifles and nega ve impacts to our treaty rights.



Calling for the Alberta Sovereignty and Saskatchewan First Acts to be withdrawn

 Resolu ons advancing gender equality for women in leadership were also passed.

I look forward to con nuing to work on your behalf to realize the posi ve poten al that this New Year, 2023, can bring for our community.

Chief Lydia Hwitsum

Message from Lydia Hwitsum, Chief

Stl’I’tleshun ch

You Are Invited

Community Mee ng

Thursday, January 26, 2023 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Si’em Lelum Dining Hall

Cowichan Tribes in partnership with the OKT Lawyers and the First Na ons Health Authority will host a gathering to share informa on about the Se le‐ment and Claims Process followed by a Ques on and Answer Session. Visit the website for more informa on about the Se lement and Claims Pro‐cess at www.firstna onsdrinkingwater.ca or call Deloi e toll‐free at 1‐833‐252‐4220

The deadline for applica ons is March 7, 2023. We recommend submi ng your Claim Form(s) as soon as possible. Contact Kwut hwum qun (Ma hew Louie) at 250‐748‐3196 Ext. 1013 or email at ma hew.louie@cowichantribes.com for informa on and/or assistance.

‘Iiyus Xew’s Silanum – Happy New Year!

Cowichan Tribes

SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT

5760 Allenby Road • Duncan, BC V9L 5J1 Telephone 778-422-2255

Fax: 778-422-1303

Website: www.cowichantribes.com

TO ALL SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT CLIENTS REMINDERS:

 the month a er you turn 64 years old, you are to start the paperwork for your pension; you will receive pension benefits the month a er your 65th birthday  Cowichan Tribes Social Development works with clients who are 19—64 years old

 All clients are to come into Social Development to complete monthly renewal declara ons—if you have a spouse, they are required to a end and sign themselves

BAND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT WORKERS:

Diane Page: Diane.Page@cowichantribes.com

Raquel Crocker: Raquel.Crocker@cowichantribes.com

Natasha Alphonse: Natasha.Alphonse@cowichantribes.com

Johnny Crocker: Johnny.Crocker@cowichantribes.com

Selina Javier: Selina.Javier@cowichantribes.com

Jennie Thomas, Manager: Jennie.Thomas@cowichantribes.com

Intake: Tessa Jones‐Tommy: Tessa.Jones‐Tommy@cowichantribes.com

Recep on: Lennora Sawyer: SA.Recept@cowichantribes.com

CHEQUE ISSUE DAY IS JANUARY 24, 2023 (for FEBRUARY 2023)

MID MONTH CHEQUE ISSUE JANUARY 10, 2023

Put these items in your recycling bin

metal and cans (rinsed and cleaned, including aluminum foil containers)

plas cs (rinsed and cleaned)

cardboard, cartons and cups (rinsed and cleaned)

paper, newspaper, magazines & envelops etc. (no plas c windows in envelops)

COMMUNITY VOICE MATTERS!

Ts’ewulhtun Health Centre of the Cowichan Tribes’ is upda ng our Community Health and Wellness Plan. We would love to hear from you!

Why a new Community Health and Wellness plan?

The Health Centre’s exis ng 2010‐2020 Community Health Plan has expired. A new 10‐year Community Health and Wellness Plan will help guide future health programs and services.

This work thrives when all community voices are heard! Community members, staff and a variety of health partners are invited to be part of the process. By working together, the plan should reflect our community values and tradi ons as well as promote ways to improve the health and wellness of our people.

In the coming months, there will be various community gatherings, small group mee ngs, and opportuni es to tell us:

We invite all to par cipate!

 What health and wellness means to you, your family and community;

It is important to hear from our community to be er understand and assess the community’s health priori es. It is also our intent to con nue to integrate our Snuw’uy’uth teachings into our prac ces and offer services in a safe and caring way.

 What is important to you and your family to achieve health and wellness; and

 Ways to offer culturally relevant programming and services.

To take part or if you have ques ons about the community health and wellness planning process, please contact:

250‐746‐6184 XT 4012 or email

Yourvoicema ers@cowichantribes.com

Quw’utsun Sul‐hween (Elders) | Home Support Services

Why Home Support?

Home support helps people live safely in their own home for as long as possible. We provide care and support for you in your home if you are:  recovering from illness or surgery,

have a chronic condi on,

are disabled, or

are needing care at the end of your life.

Home support is intended to enhance your care. Our services are not meant to replace your efforts to care for yourself, with the help of your family, friends, and community.

Who Are We?

Program Manager: Anna Mar n

Elders’ Nurses:

Cara & Angie

Recep on/Ac vity Aid: Benecia

Personal Care Workers

Donna

Freda

Lucy

Marcie

Rob

Rose

Rachel

Victoria

Elders Bus Drivers:

Dean & Fabian

Meal Delivery Drivers: Doug, Dorothy, Robert, Perry

Elders’ Kitchen: Arnie, Victoria, Julie, Marion

Elders’ Nursing & Staff, What Do We Do?

Elders’ team members have been working on‐site & in‐community at clients’ homes throughout the Pandemic and con nue to support Elders through:

 Providing in home visits by Personal Care Workers (PCW) for meal prep, personal care i.e. dressing, bathing, medica on reminders and light housekeeping.

 Suppor ng Elders by submi ng special need requests for eye glasses, dentures, special medica ons, foot care.

 Referring to occupa onal therapy, Island Health, die an, respiratory therapy, communica ng with doctors and community partners.

 Elders’ nurses are doing home visits to update or create home care services. Referrals accepted by telephone call to an Elders’ nurse at 250‐715‐3303

 Nurses con nue to work both in‐office and from home

 Providing bus transport for our bathing program & ac vi es

 Hospital Liaison: Danny is our Aboriginal Liaison Nurse based out of Cowichan District Hospital and works Mon‐day to Friday. Danny works with those in hospital.

What services are not included in Home Support?

Who can receive Home Support?

Cowichan Tribes’ Home Support Program is available to First Na ons people who reside on the Cowichan Reserves and who meet requirements. Your Elders Nurse will work with you to iden fy your personal care needs and explore other op ons to meet those needs prior to star ng home support. They will help you link to other services in your area if needed. If home support services are needed, the nurse will develop a plan of care with you. Call 250‐715‐3303 with request to speak to an Elders team member for inquiries and support.

Home care nursing services are separate from Home Support. Our team does not provide the following services and would refer to Island Health for those who require:

 Wound care, dressing changes

 Intravenous (IV) therapy

 Respite care/extended relief visits

 Over‐night or weekend care

 Pallia ve care

Other items not covered by the Elders’ department include:

 Supplies otherwise covered by benefits

 Wound supplies such as bandages, wraps

 New beds

 Reimbursements for medica ons

Quw’utsun Sul‐hween (Elders) | Home Support Services

Elders’ Program Staffing Updates:

We said goodbye &offered our best wishes to our Elders nurse Rozalee Daniels in her exci ng future endeavors. We are thankful for many years of dedicated work always done with much kindness and care. Huy ch q’u Rozalee

We have welcomed Benecia George to our team as Recep on & Ac vity Coordinator. We also said goodbye for now and best wishes to Victoria (Personal care worker) and we have a big hearty welcome back to Angie Gibson as Elders’ Nurse.

Julie Charlie and Marion James have joined our kitchen team to help provide meals for our Sul’hween. We are welcoming a new Elders’ Program Manager, Anna Mar n who started in December 2022. Exci ng  mes ahead!

Collabora on:

We work with in‐house team members as well as community partners to be er serve our Elders. We can connect and refer you or loved ones to:

Occupa onal Therapy at Island Health:

 Assessing home environments of clients for safety.

 Advising on adap ve equipment to help clients with daily ac vi es.

 Conduc ng physical and psychological assessments.

Island Health: Supplemental Home Support Services

Oral Care Aides: Ts’ewulhtun Dental 250‐715‐3305

Registered Die an: April DeYaeger

Respiratory Therapist: Ann Brown—available at Slhexun sun’ts’a; Clinic.

Chiropractor: Julian Wynne‐Smith – available at Slhexun Sun’ts’a Clinic. You can self‐refer by calling 250‐715‐3322

Foot Care:

Can be provided by Foot Care Nurse Lynda Bealing at the Elders’ building on Wednesdays.

Please connect with Elders’ nurses to book a Foot Care Visit with Lynda:

(250)715‐3303

Q: How does one refer to your program?

A: One can self refer or be referred by family or friends with the member's permission, by calling 250‐715‐3303 and speaking to an Elders nurse.

Luncheon: Resumed at limited capacity Nov 24!

For more informa on or to request an assessment, please call us at 250‐715‐3303 and request to speak to an Elders’ Nurse

Meals on Wheels: Meals are delivered to community members who qualify and who are in our Home Support program.

Out of Town Trips: Please call to sign‐up

A en on: Sul’hween

We were thrilled to see Elders in the Dining Hall for luncheons; which started in November, 2022.

We con nue to be required to limit the number of people in this space. The Elders Dining Hall occupancy limit is 40 people. Masks are required. If we reach the 40 person in‐house occupancy limits, lunches can be provided to‐go.

Elders’ Program

Announcements:

 Upcoming Footcare dates with Lydna on Wednesdays Jan 11, Jan 18, Jan 25

between 9am‐4pm

 Hearing Clinic Jan 6, Jan 18 between 10am‐12pm

Please call us at 250‐715‐3303 to book a foot care or hearing health appointments

 Holiday Closure between:

Dec 19, 2022 to Jan 3, 2023:

Services resume Jan 4, 2023

Please connect with the Elders’ Program to let us know when you will be joining us for lunch and to arrange transport if needed (Mon to Fri) by calling the Elders Building directly at:

(250) 715‐3303

Ts’ewulhtun Elders Program

5768 Allenby Road, Duncan BC

Phone: 250‐715‐3303

Ac vi es in January:

 Stay tuned for a January calendar!

 Swim Program Tuesday & Fridays

 Bingo! Alterna ng Wednesdays and Fridays

Lounge open daily

Family Wellness Cooking

When: Fridays

Time: 10:00—1:30 PM

Where: New Life Church

Rides Available: Join Ts’ewulhtun Health Centre Family

Wellness Facebook page. Let us know if you are coming, need a ride and how many.

Cut Off: 12:00 noon on the Wednesday of the same week.

Dates: January 13—July 28, 2023

(no cooking April 7/23)

Please contact through the Facebook page either Caroline

Modeste or Selena Peter

Tobacco Tax Distribu on Day

The 2022 Tobacco Tax distribu on amount is $347.15.

If you missed the first distribu on on December 7, 2022 you can s ll apply!

Membership Commi ee Mee ng

The Membership Commi ee will be mee ng on Thursday, January 19, 2023. The deadline for applica ons is Thursday, January 12, 2023 by 4:30PM.

The next deadline is January 13, 2023, for the January 20, 2023 distribu on date!

Feel free to call the Membership Department if you have any ques ons! 236‐800‐4023 or email membership@cowichantribes.com

Membership & Tobacco Tax Team:

Jen Charlie‐ Membership Administrator/

IRA

Pauline Thorne ‐ Membership Assistant

Evangeline Paige– Membership Intake Worker

Colle e Alphonse– Tobacco Tax Clerk

Wilhelmina Harris ‐ Tobacco tax clerk

Anola Johnny ‐ Tobacco Tax clerk

Courtney Modeste ‐ Tobacco Tax Clerk

Veronica Smith– Tobacco Tax Clerk

Applica ons for Membership can be printed from the Cowichan Tribes website: www.cowichantribes.com

If you have any ques ons, please phone the Membership Department at: 236‐800‐4023.

Happy Birthday!

The Membership Department & Tobacco Tax Team would like to wish a Happy Birthday to all of the 438 Cowichans with birthdays in January!

CONTACT US

CAPITAL PROJECTS PROJECTS

UPDATE

BY PHONE (250‐715‐3302)

Call us Monday through Friday

8:30 AM‐12:00 PM & 1:00 PM‐4:30 PM

BY EMAIL

Send us a message at shd.maintenance@cowichantribes.com

LEAVE US A MESSAGE ON OUR WEBSITE

Ask us a ques on or share some feedback at www.cowichantribes.com/housing

PAY RENT

Send an e‐Transfer to directdeposit@cowichantribes.com

Remember to include your rental address and tenant name(s) when sending your payment.

CHECK US OUT ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/cowichantribeshousing

Low Pressure Sewer

Construc on is con nuing for the Low Pressure Sewer Project – Zones 1,2,3,4,5‐2 with the remaining por on of 2022 focusing within the Boys Road area (Zone 4). Please be advised that intermi ent traffic disrup on is to be expected in the Boys Road area during construc‐on. Individual low pressure sewer tanks are planned to con nue being installed within the Boys Road area from Mission Road to Modeste Road. So far 26 out of 46 tanks have been installed, all within Zone 4.

Once individual tanks are installed, access hatches will be installed. You can expect an electrician to be on site in the weeks following the installa on to connect the pumps within the sep c tank to the electrical panel within your home. Be advised that the electrician will require access to the electrical panel within your home to carry out the required installa on work and will give advanced no ce for access.

The Shmaqwuthut Road area (Zone 1) is now fully connected to municipal sewer. All areas are to be completed by March 2023. Individual property restora on and paving will be weather dependent a er individual tanks are installed. We appreciate your pa ence as we con nue to work towards providing municipal sewer to our community.

Please contact James Ouelle e in the Capital Projects Department at (250) 715‐3302 for more informa on on this project.

CAPITAL PROJECTS

32 Unit Modular Housing

December was an exci ng month for the modular housing project. Curbs, sidewalks and paving have now been completed and the fencing surrounding the sport court has also been installed. Construc‐on of the outdoor washroom is complete and the garbage enclosure is currently under construc on. Landscaping work will be weather dependent. Final inspec on for occupancy for all buildings is ge ng very close and once that happens tenant selec on will begin.

If you are interested in applying for one of the units in this project, please ensure you submit your housing applica on. If you have submi ed your applica on already, please make sure it is up‐to‐date. Housing applica ons can be picked up at the Sustainable Housing office or can be found online at h ps://cowichantribes.com/housing‐applica on‐homepage

Please contact Lauren Miller in the Capital Projects Department at (250) 715‐3302 for more informa on on this project.

Sustainable Housing & Capital Projects

SUSTAINABLE HOUSING

Smoke Detector and Fire Safety

Wondering what to do when you hear your smoke detector beeping.

If you hear your smoke detector making a quick chirping sound every 30‐60 seconds this means the ba ery or smoke detector needs to be replaced.

If you hear your smoke detector loudly beeping at a con nuous intervals this means it has detected smoke. GET OUTSIDE AND CALL 9‐1‐1 IMMEDIATELY!

If you hear your neighbours smoke detector, go check on them and ensure they are ok. CALL 9‐1‐1 IF THEY ARE NOT HOME.

If you see smoke or flames coming from their home CALL 9‐1‐1 IMMEDIATELY.

Sustainable Housing should only be called in an emergency a er 9‐1‐1 has been contacted.

B.C Fire Sta s cs

In 2021, fi y nine people died as a result of structure fires.

Between July 1 and September 30, 2022 there were 543 structure fires which resulted in 3 deaths and 20 injuries. All 3 deaths occurred in structures with no smoke detector. 16% of the structure fires did not have a smoke detector and 8% did not have a work‐ing smoke detector.

270 fires were caused by people ignoring hazards. 59 fires were caused by people who were distracted or pre‐occupied.

38 fires were caused by suspected impairment by either alcohol, drugs or medica ons.

29% of fires are caused by matches, lighters or candles.

23% were caused by cooking appliances

6% were caused by other electrical appliances.

SUSTAINABLE HOUSING

Did you know…..?

Many of the cell phone and other mobile device chargers available to buy at gas sta ons and dollar stores are uncer fied and pose a significant risk of fire or electrocu on. Many have been recalled by Health Canada. Uncer fied means that they have not met the provincial and territorial electrical codes or safety standards and most of the problem chargers are made outside of Canada.

As the charger is used it degrades and faults which can cause electrocu ons and fires if le  una end‐ed. Companies that import chargers are supposed to ensure that they meet the required federal and provincial safety standards.

Anyone who has a recalled charger should stop using it immediately and either return it to the store where it was purchased or get rid of it. To see if your charger is on the recall list check Health Canada’s website: h ps://recalls‐rappels.canada.ca/en/alert‐recall/health‐canada‐warns‐safety‐hazards‐several‐uncer fied‐usb‐chargers

DO’S and DON’TS when buying and using cell phone and mobile device chargers.

 DO use chargers specifically built for the device you are using.

 DO NOT use a damaged or frayed charger.

 DO NOT charge your device on a so  or flammable surface like you bed or sofa.

 DO look for safety symbols when you purchase a charger such as a CSA symbol or other common cer fica on marks.

 DO NOT charge devices in temperatures above 50oC or below zero.

 DO unplug your charger when not in use.

CONSERVATION CORNER: Hwts’ahwum

Cherry Point

Quw’utsun & Hwts’ahwum

Hwts’ahwum, is an important marine place for Quw’utsun for a myriad of reasons. Pre‐contact, it was a primary harvest site, from ‘ey’x (crab), to skw’i h’i’ (green urchin) and xihwu (red urchin), to salmon and rockfish species, to shellfish.

Hwts’ahwum remains an important site as a nursery for rockfish, Dungeness crab, and a number of marine fish, because of the healthy eelgrass bed found there In modern‐day, shellfish harvest is not accessible, but there are ongoing restora on efforts by Lulumexun and S‐hwuhwa’us Thi’lut Kw’atl’kwa to make Hwts’ahwum a safe shellfish harvest place again.

The Crew regularly monitor Hwts’ahwum on foot, and conduct a monthly bird count there as part of Birds Canada’s BC Coastal Waterbird Survey. It was also a recent site for the Salish Sea Bioblitz, where the crew document‐ed a huge range of species biodiversity, further highligh ng the importance of this place.

Environmental Opportuni es

This monthly sec on of Conserva on Corner will con nue in February 2023! Huy tseep q’u!

S‐hwuhwa’us Thi’lut Kw’atl’kwa & Hwts’ahwum

Cherry Point Marine with Pi’paam in the background

Lulumexun and S‐hwuhwa’us Thi’lut Kw’atl’kwa Staff at the Bioblitz

Lulumexun  ‐  Lands & Self ‐ Governance

S‐hwuhwa’us Thi’lut Kw’atl’kwa: Beach Monitoring and Debris Mapping

Beach Monitoring: The S‐hwuhwa’us Thi’lut Kw’atl’kwa regularly monitor beaches on foot and from the water from Chemainus to Cobble Hill, and on Salt Spring Island. The field crew use a mobile app to record and report human impacts such as derelict, sinking, or abandoned vessels; marine pollu on; inter dal construc on; and debris/garbage. The goal is to iden fy the most heavily impacted beaches in Cowichan Tribes’ core marine territory, and work with provincial and federal agencies to remediate them, with emphasis on poten al shellfish harves ng beaches.

Top image: the S‐hwuhwa’us Thi’lut Kw’atl’kwa marine debris form in the Trailmark app Bo om images: examples of marine debris reported on the beaches.

Xwulqw’selu Watershed Sustainability planning update:

With pleasure, we introduce the team represen ng Cowichan Tribes and suppor ng the Water Sustainability Planning process. Cowichan Tribes and BC will be developing a holis c watershed plan that will draw on the Water Sustainability Act, Cowichan Tribes laws and authority, and other planning tools and ac ons. Working in the Lulumexun Lands and Self‐Governance department, Larry George, Tracy Fleming, and Eduardo Sousa hold their respec ve posi ons. Rosie Simms has also recently come aboard as staff, and Cheyenne Williams is suppor ng through contract.

Larry George is a member of Cowichan Tribes and has served as the Director of Lulumexun (Lands & Self‐Governance) for Cowichan Tribes for 20 years. Larry has been involved in extensive partnerships and ini a ves in the watershed, including in his current capacity as co‐Chair of the Xwulqw’selu Water Sustainability Planning process. He has been a member of various internal/external organiza ons that protect our resources (including the First Na ons Fisheries Council, Qul‐lhanumutsun Aqua c Resources Society, and Fraser Salmon Management Council).

Tracy Fleming has worked for Cowichan Tribes since 2004 and started in the former Environment Department. Currently, she works as the Lead Referrals Coordinator in the Lulumexun Department. She has also been working on the Xwulqw'selu Water Sustainability Planning process since February 2020. Tracy brings a background in vegeta on and environmental ecology (Master of Science, Dalhousie University) and has worked for several years as a profession

al biologist for the provincial forestry research department and conserva on specialist for the regional government. She has experience in invasive species management projects and monitoring plants and ecosystems at risk on southern Vancouver Island. Like many se lers in Canada, Tracy has some Indigenous ancestry from the Mi'kmaq Na on in Nova Sco a. Her mother is a se ler from England. She has called the unceded Quw'utsun territory home for almost 25 years. A few years ago, Luschiim (Arvid Charlie) honoured her by calling her by the Hul'q'umi'num version of her name, Tuliisi.

Eduardo Sousa is the Referrals Coordinator in the Lulumexun Department and began working for Cowichan Tribes in March 2022. He lives in Duncan in Samuna Village with his family. Amongst his various projects with Cowichan Tribes, Eduardo sits on the Koksilah Watershed Sustainability Plan (WSP) Steering Commi ee. He also is an elected Trustee for School District 79 ‐ Cowichan Valley. Eduardo was Policy Advisor and Researcher with the Indigenous Leadership Ini a ve, which fosters Indigenous Na onhood to conserve and manage Indigenous lands. He runs a small consultan‐cy, TEIA Consul ng, providing strategic planning, communica ons, and project management support for Indigenous communi es. Eduardo was also a nego ator on the award‐winning Great Bear Rainforest Agreements with First Na ons, the BC Government and the logging industry. Eduardo was also an environmental planner and special projects coordinator for Toronto Parks, working with communi es on environmental stewardship and community gardens. He has a Master’s Degree in Environmental Studies from Toronto's York University, focusing on watershed planning and community mobiliza on. Eduardo has various ar cles published in books, magazines, and online regarding watershed stewardship and planning, water issues and environmental history.

Rosie Simms has been working with Cowichan Tribes on Xwulqw'selu Water Sustainability Planning since the spring of 2021. She is a third‐genera on se ler with family  es to Germany and England and grew up in beau ful watersheds in the unceded territory of the Ktunaxa, Syilx, and Sinixt Peoples. Drawing on her

Lulumexun  ‐  Lands & Self ‐ Governance

experiences at the POLIS Water Sustainability Project, First Na ons Fisheries Council, and beyond, Rosie feels fortunate to bring her background in water governance, law, and policy to support Cowichan Tribes' vision and direc on for the Xwulqw'selu WSP.

Cheyenne Williams is a Cowichan Tribes band member from S’amunu village. Her late grandfather is Robert Williams, and her grandmother is Tiny Williams (nee Clutesi), from Kyuquot in Nuu chah nulth territory. Cheyenne also has family  es to England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. She has supported the Xwulqw’selu Watershed Sustainability Planning since October 2021 and is studying at the University of Victoria, double majoring in Environmental Studies and Indigenous Studies.

The Provincial Team In addi on, several members of the Province of Bri sh Columbia are collabora ng on this good work to protect the Koksilah Watershed. This includes Jennifer Vigano (Director of Watershed Sustainability and Steering Commi ee co‐Chair for the Province of BC), Cali Melnechenko (Water Authoriza ons Sec on Head, Ministry of Forests), Jessica Doyle (Water Protec on Sec on Head, Ministry of Forests), Arle e Malcolm (Director of Resource Stewardship Opera ons, Ministry of Water, Lands and Resource Stewardship), Lana Miller (Director, Water Sustainabil‐ity, Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship), Harmanjit Dhadli (Sr. Water Projects Manager, Ministry of Forests), and Carys Pinches (Water Policy Advisor, Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship).

Advisors to the Steering Commi ee working outside of the Province and Cowichan Tribes include Tom Rutherford (Cowichan Watershed Society ), Oliver Brandes (economist, lawyer and Co‐Director of the POLIS Project on Ecological Governance (UVic) and Director of the POLIS Water Sustainability Project), Deborah Curran (Advisor, Professor, Execu ve Director, Environmental Law Centre at UVic), and Jill Thompson (Cowichan Watershed Board), Natasha Over‐duin (Facilitator / Governance Specialist, Compass Resource Management).

Xqulqw’selu WSP Steering Commi ee mee ng. Group photo, taken in Bright Angel Park, September 21, 2022. Front row: Larry George, Luschiim (Aarvid Charlie), Harmanjit Dhadli, Cheyenne Williams. Middle row: Eduardo Sousa, Tracy Fleming, Natasha Overduin, Rosie Simms, Jessica Doyle, Carys Pinches, Cali Melnechenko, Jennifer Vigano, Arle e Malcolm. Back row: Oliver Brandes, Tom Rutherford.

Lalum’utul’ Smun’eem Child & Family Services

5766 Allenby Road, Duncan, BC V9L 6J6

Phone: 250.746.1002 Fax: 250.746.7745

Administra on Team ~ tl’uqw’ –preparing for and maintaining our work, ready and available to our community.

Execu ve Team:

 Denise Orpen, Execu ve Director

 Addie Price, Associate Director & Ac ng Execu ve Director

 Patricia Thomas, Ac ng Associate Director

 Tami Fuson, Opera ons Manager

 Deanna Jacobs, Policy Analyst/Quality Assurance

Administra on Team:

 Anna‐Lee Antoine

 Ashley Kinnaird, Office Manager

 Bertanya Cornish

 Madison Thomas

 Suzanne Foster

 Amanda Thomas

 Leona Smith

Access Team ~ Stqeeye

The Access Team provides supervised visits for Children in Care with their families.

 Donna Vanderkerkhove, Manager

 Sandra Seymour

 Tillie Modeste

Child Safety Team ~ S‐hun’ts’a’wuqw ‘families and people coming together as one for a purpose Wise Prac ces in Protec on – carrying out our responsibili es to future genera ons

Each Social Worker carries mainly Family Service Files but they also carry some Youth Files (Youth Agreements, Agreements with Young Adults, etc.).

 Kris n Ronse, Family Service Manager

 Dawna Ellio , Out of Care Op ons Social Worker

 Kathleen McCarthy, Family Service Social Worker

 Marie Ellio , Family Service Social Worker

 Pamela Campbell, Family Service Social Worker

 Stephanie Langkammer, Family Service Social Worker

 Mary‐Rose Williams, Out of Care Op ons Social Worker

 Vanessa Hetu ~ Urban Team Social Worker

 Ashley Baur ~ Urban Team Family Service Manager

 Danielle Laferriere~ Urban Team Social Worker

Family Connec ons Team ~ ts’lh’a’amu m – ‘Family’ Ensuring our connec ons are strong and resilient

Life Skills Coaches work mainly with Youth in Care helping Youth with employment, resumes, iden fica on (Status Card, SIN, etc.), naviga ng through ‘systems’, etc.

 Molly Paige, Manager

 Adele Joe, Life Skills Coach

 Karrighan Mitchell, Life Skills Coach

 Mali Monroe, Art Therapist

 Transporta on Driver: vacant

Hulithut ~ to heal oneself; to come to life ~ Group Home

Hulithut is for Youth (13 years+). We also have the Youth Pods available for Youth on Youth Agreements or for our Youth transi oning into young adulthood. Hulithut works closely with our Pivot team who provides specialized care.

 Garre  Ellio , Manager

 JJ Allen, Youth Worker

 Roberta Jim, Youth Worker

 part  me/ on call casual staff

Intake Team: the Intake Team is the first contact where there is no open file (such as a Family Service file, Child in Care File, etc.), or you wish to make an anonymous child safety report.

 Amber Upshaw, Intake Manager

 Karlee Day, Intake Social Worker

 Roberta Bellamy, Intake Social Worker

 Whitney Harris, Intake Social Worker

Permanency Team: Thuyshenum ‘placing one’s feet in the right direc on’ Stepping Towards Permanency

Social Workers work mainly with Children and Youth in ‘permanent’ care (Con nuing Care Orders, Transfer of Cus‐tody [54.1 and 54.01, etc.]).

 Jacquie Adams, Permanency Manager

 Alicia Boone, Permanency Social Worker

 Dorthy Joe, Adop on Social Worker

 Stephanie Ball, Permanency Social Worker

Support Services ~ Skwami’ lhum’ ~Caring for another person’s child

Hwial’asmut ~ ‘taking care’ Caring for the Carers Wise Prac ces in Placement: carrying out our responsibili es to future genera ons

 Patricia (Trish) Thomas, Support Services Manager

 Asheleigh Narey, Support Services Social Worker

 Lea Joe, Support Services Social Worker

 Rosemary Daniels, Family finder

Lalum’utul’ Smun’eem Child & Family Services

Preven on Team ~ Lum‐stam’sh ~ ‘show me’ – So I can show my children. The office is located at #1 – 5838 Trans Canada Hwy and includes Community Safety Programs.

 Angela Underwood, Community Safety Coordinator.

Angela’s programs includes:

 Cultural Program (working with cedar)

 Family Wellness (one‐to‐one WebEx appointments working with families)

 Women’s Program (in‐person). 8‐week program with Lyla Harmon.

Please see our Facebook Page: “Cowichan Tribes Preven on” or our Quw’utsun Newsle er for current programs.

 Kimberlee George, Community Engagement Manager. Kimberlee’s main role is the Cowichan Tribes Child & Family Wellness Legisla on Project. Child and Family Wellness Legisla on: ourchildlaw.com

Lalum’utul’ Smun’eem Advisory Commi ee

We are very happy to announce the vacancies on our Advisory Commi ee Board are now filled! Here is our Advisory Board Members:

Chief & Council Members:

Albie Charlie

Howie George

Stephanie Atleo

Caregiver Member: Chris Alphonse

To make a Report:

Community Member: Wayne Paige, Jr

Elder Member: Wayne Paige, Sr

Youth Member: Kendra Charlie

If you think a child or youth under 19 years of age is being abused or neglected, you have the legal duty to report your concern to a child welfare worker. Phone 1 800 663‐9122 at any  me of the day or night.

Helpline for Children:

If you are a child or youth and would like to talk to someone, call the Helpline for Children at 310.1234 (toll free, no area code).

Indian Dance List 2023 ‐  2027

Sat. Jan 7/23

Sat. Jan 7/23

Sat Jan 7/23

Sun Jan 8/23

Fri Jan 13/23

Sat Jan 14/23

Sat Jan 21/23

Marie Louie/Mona Bob & Baby / Gina Ellio  Memorial S’amuna

Jeffrey Williams Memorial ***POSTPONED Sts’ailes

Sneatlum Memorial Tulalip, WA

Andrea Malloway Memorial (3pm Table) Tzeachten Longhouse

Marvin Jim Quamichan

Brandi McNeil Memorial Charlie Longhouse

Maureen Mar n Memorial ***POSTPONED*** S’amuna

Fri Jan 20/23 Felix Paige Jr. Memorial Lhumlhumuluts

Sat Jan 21/23

Sat Jan 21/23

Sun Jan 22/23

Fri Jan 27/23

Sat Jan 28/23

Sat Jan 28/23

Sat Jan 28/23

Sat Jan 28/23

Fri Feb 3/23

Sat Feb 4/23

Sat Feb 4/23

Sat Feb 4/23

Grant Family Musqueam

Wilma Canute & Family S’amuna

David (Lucky) Norris (12pm Table) Halalt Gym

Sam & Eliza Jack Memorial (3pm Table/ 6pm Work) Lhumlhumuluts

Julia Wyse Memorial Snuneymuxw

Melvin & Jeannie Jimmy Lummi, WA

Peters & Point Family (2pm Table) Charlie Longhouse

David Bob Jr Memorial ***POSTPONED*** Stz’uminus

Peter Family S’amuna

Deloris George Memorial Lhumlhumuluts

Adeline & Esther Morris Memorial Tsartlip

Mabel Point (Mopsie) Memorial (4pm Table) ***FAMILY REQUEST NO CHILDREN*** Sts’ailes

Sat Feb 4/23 Qwi‐lod Christopher “Fuzz” Heath Memorial & Naming Lummi Comm. Bldg

Fri Feb 10/23

Sat Feb 11/23

Sat Feb 11/23

Sat Feb 11/23

Sat Feb 18/23

Sat Feb 18/23

Sat Feb 25/23

Sat Feb 25/23

Sat Mar 4/23

Fri Mar 10/23

Sat Mar 11/23

Sun Mar 12/23

Fri Mar 17/23

Sat Mar 18/23

Tyrell Kenworthy 6pm Table Shxwhay Village (Skway)

Anne, Irvin, Walter(Ken) & Augie(Ken) Jimmy Memorial Tsawout

George Family Memorial ***POSTPONED*** Lummi, WA (frog bldg)

Raymond Jerry Jr & Berlinda Adaire Memorial Elk House, Muckleshoot

Ida (Anna) Sam Memorial Malahat

Ben Paul Musqueam

Peter & Francis George Jr Memorial Lhumlhumuluts

Rick & Donia Edwards Naming & Memorial

Lummi,WA (Wexlium bldg)

Joe Family Memorial S’amuna

Gerry Charlie Memorial Lhumlhumuluts

Clyde E. Johnnie Memorial S’amuna

Willie Seymour, Janice Page & Noreen Seymour Memorial Snuneymuxw

Darren Jacobs Naming Stz’uminus

Benedict Alphonse Memorial Lhumlhumuluts

Indian Dance List 2021 ‐  2027

Sat Mar 18/23

Fri Mar 24/23

Sat Mar 25/23

Sun Mar 26/23

Fri Mar 31/23

Fri Mar 31/23

Sat Apr 1/23

Sat June 17/23

Sat June 24/23

Thurs Jul 13/23

Sat Sept 23/23

Sat Sept 30/23

Sat Oct 14/23

Sat Nov 11/23

Sat Nov 11/23

Sat Nov 18/23

Fri Nov 24/23

Sat Nov 25/23

Sat Nov 25/23

Sat Nov 25/23

Fri Dec 1/23

Sat Dec 2/23

Sat Dec 2/23

Sat Dec 9/23

Sat Dec 9/23

Sat Dec 9/23

Fri Dec 15/23

Sat Dec 16/23

Sat Dec 16/23

Sat Dec 23/23

Sat Dec 30/23

Sun Dec 31/23

Fri Jan 5/24

Roseanna & Glen Lewis Memorial Capilano

Thomas Family Malahat

Gail Jack Memorial S’amuna

Cooper Paul Memorial Esquimalt

Diane & Jerry Jimmy Memorial Snuneymuxw

Daniels & Charlie Family Memorial Malahat

David & Seymour Families Snuneymuxw

Ken Thomas/Marlo Thomas ***POSTPONED*** Siem Lelum

Nolan Johnny & Adrianne “Lila” Williams (Thomas) Memorial Siem Lelum

Rella Sylvester/Francis & Bertha James Memorial Penelakut Gym

Norris/Presco  Work Kilgard

Norris Family Memorial Halalt Gym

Maureen Mar n Memorial S’amuna

Tom & Pat Peters (Norris) Memorial Lhumlhumuluts

Chris Ellio  ***CANCELLED*** Stz’uminus

Michelle L George Memorial (12pm Table) S’amuna

Williams Family Tsartlip

Sampson Memorial Stz’uminus

Jean & Gary Mille e Memorial Scianew‐Beecher Bay

Geraldine Paul (Seymour) Memorial Kilgard

Virginia (Teh) Jones Memorial Lekwammen (Songhees)

Daniels Family Malahat

Winifred (Susie) McHalsie (Williams) Memorial Shxwhay Village

Eileen Thomas/ Louise Paul Memorial Sts’ailes (Chehalis BH)

Marcel Charlie Memorial TBA

Rita Leon Memorial ***POSTPONED***

Sts’ailes (Chehalis)

Martha Seymour Memorial Tsartlip

Campbell/Point Family Memorial ***POSTPONED*** Musqueam

George Bailey Jr Memorial Nooksack

Velma Cooper (Suh) Memorial Nooksack Comm. Bldg

Fergie Gibson Memorial S’amuna

Edythe (Honey), Nadine & Christy Clark and Cheryl Edwards Memorial Lummi, WA

Lillian Jimmy‐Harry Memorial Malahat

Sat Jan 6/24 Gab Bob & Family TBA

Sat Jan 13/24

Kelly Chapman Memorial Cheam

Indian Dance List 2021 ‐  2027

Sat Jan 20/24

Sat Jan 20/24

Fri Jan 26/24

Sat Jan 27/24

Fri Feb 2/24

Sat Feb 3/24

Sat Feb 3/24

Sat Feb 3/24

Sat Feb 10/24

Sat Feb 10/24

Sat Feb 17/24

Sat Feb 24/24

Sat Feb 24/24

Sat Mar 9/24

Fri Mar 15/24

Sat Mar 30/24

Sat Apr 6/24

Sat July 23/24

Sat Oct 26/24

Fri Nov 1/24

Sat Nov 2/24

Sat Nov 9/24

Fri Nov 15/24

Sat Nov 16/24

Fri Nov 22/24

Sat Nov 23/24

Sat Nov 23/24

Sat Nov 30/24

Sat Dec 7/24

Sat Dec 7/24

Sat Dec 14/24

Sat Dec 14/24

Sat Jan 4/25

Sam Henry Memorial Lhumlhumuluts

Henry Charles Memorial Thiyothel (Chehalis)

George Jones Sr Memorial Tsartlip

M.Joe S’amuna

Naming Swinomish

Agnes Padilla (nee Wyse) Memorial Snuneymuxw

Marlon Edwards Sr & Emma Penn Memorial Swinomish

Leonard George Memorial Tseil‐Waututh Gym

Tammy Jones Memorial ***FAMILY REQUEST NO CHILDREN*** Tsartlip

Charlene Swanaset Memorial Nooksack Comm. Bldg

Peter Gray Jr Memorial S’amuna

Cooper Memorial Tsawout

Elizabeth Dan/ Eunice Dan Memorial Musqueam

James Joe & Family S’amuna

Sheila M Charlie (nee Peter) Memorial S’amuna

Jimmy Family Memorial Lhumlhumuluts

Hubert Henry & Billy Joseph Memorial TBA

Fairlie Johnny Memorial Siem Lelum

Edwards Family Malahat

Ronald Peter Jr Memorial Quamutsun

Yvonne Sampson Memorial Stz’uminus

Irene Sam & Gary Timothy Memorial Penelakut

Darryl Alphonse Memorial Lhumlhumuluts

Les Tom Memorial Tsartlip

Dennis Charlie Memorial TBA

Perry (BamBam) Lafortune Jr TBA

Jensen Paul Memorial Thiyothel (Chehalis)

Florence Claxton Memorial Tsawout

Denise Irene Sam‐Morris Memorial Lekwammen

Johnny Williams Sr & Allen Williams Memorial Sts’ailes (Chehalis)

Jason Sylvester & Margaret Seymour‐Cayou Memorial Lhumlhumuluts

Campbell/Point Family Memorial Musqueam

Gilbert Sam Joe Memorial TBA

Sat Jan 11/25 Point Family Memorial (2pm Table) ***FAMILY REQUEST NO CHILDREN*** Sts’ailes (Chehalis)

Sat Jan 18/25

Francis Family Memorial Charlie Longhouse

Indian Dance List 2021 ‐  2027

Sat Jan 25/25

Sat Feb 8/25

Sat Feb 15/25

Sat Feb 15/25

Sat Feb 22/25

Fri Mar 7/25

Sat Mar 8/25

Sat Mar 22/25

Sat Mar 29/25

Sat Nov 8/25

Sat Nov 15/25

Fri Nov 21/25

Sat Nov 22/25

Sat Nov 29/25

Sat Dec 6/25

Sat Dec 6/25

Sat Dec 13/25

Sat Jan 31/26

Mon Feb 2/26

Sat Nov 21/26

Sat Dec 12/26

Fri Jan 29/27

Alex & Geraldine Paul Memorial Keetchla House—Sts’ailes

Cori/Pamela/James & Wayne (Rocky) Norris Jr. Memorial Tseycum

Theresa Rice/ Jack Memorial TBD‐Malahat/Stz’uminus

Terence Patrick Point Musqueam

May, Andrew & Cinderella Jack Memorial ***POSTPONED TO 2027*** S’amuna

James Memorial TBA

Cody Charlie/Billy Jack & Ancil Thomas Sr Memorial S’amuna

Doreen Pelkey Memorial Tsawout

John Harry Sr. Memorial Malahat

Charlie Tom Memorial Tsartlip

Seymour & Ellio  Family Stz’uminus

Norman Underwood Sr Memorial Tsawout

Edwards/Sampson & Frenchie Memorial Stz’uminus

Rhonda Lynne Seward (nee Harris) Memorial Snuneymuxw

Amber Good Memorial Penelakut

Rita (Mahalothelwet) Leon Memorial Sts’ailes (Chehalis)

Shaun Crocker Memorial Stz’uminus

William & Chrissy Horne Memorial Tsartlip

Louie Memorial Quamichan

Gail Gibbs Memorial Esquimalt

Marshall & April Frenchy Memorial Stz’uminus

May, Andrew & Cinderella Jack Memorial S’amuna

UPDATES FROM OUR TEAM

Roundtable Civil Works:

At the hospital Site the clearing and grubbing is complete. We are hopeful to con nue earthworks on this project in the New Year.

Off‐site civil work is well under way for the Tsow‐Tun Le Lum Treatment Facility and we are suppor ng Houle Electric in Parksville and Nanaimo for the installa on of Municipal EV Charging Sta ons. We are also suppor ng Houle Electric on the Duct Bank Replacement for the Indigenous Law Centre at the University of Victoria. Our Civil Team had a great year, providing earthworks and civil works to mul ple projects and we are looking forward to 2023.

If you are interested in a career in Civil Construc on, please email Renee.Olson@khowutzun.com

FOREST SERVICES

The Khowutzun Forest Services staff and crews want to wish all Cowichan Tribes members. Season’s Gree ngs and a Happy New Year in 2023.

It has been a very successful 2022 for KFS employees with a variety of work including plan ng, manual and chemical brushing, FireSmart fuel management, firefigh ng, pile burning, flood control and harves ng on the community forest. KFS is currently logging 1400 m3 (35 logging truck loads) on the community forest.

KFS is also providing cultural firewood for longhouses and elders this winter. We at KFS look forward to con nued success in 2023.

KHOWUTZUNFREEGRO.CA

As another year draws to a close, we pause to wish you all the best during this blissful season.

Sending our warmest thoughts and best wishes for a wonderful holiday season and a successful and glorious new year on behalf of the Khowutzun Freegro Tree Shelters staff

TREE SHELTERS

NEW VOICES

This past year has been a produc ve year for the New Voices team at KDC. The New Voices team have been busy canvassing door to door, pu ng on presenta ons for local schools and sharing new and upcoming job opportuni es with the community. Last spring, the New Voices team held a successful job fair with all KDC's partners and the feedback was fantas c. KDC is planning to have a job fair annually. This past summer, we held a Lunch & Learn with our partner Nucor Harris Rebar where community members had the opportunity to learn about Nucor Harris Rebar, what they offer and meet the New Voices team. We had the opportunity to collaborate with Bears Lair to put on a fun Dream Camp for local youth interested in entrepreneurship. This winter season has community members taking part in a training boot camp for Rebar and ironwork with the Ironworkers Union. The New Voices team looks forward to crea ng more fun, exci ng and informa ve opportuni es that posi vely impact all community members!

FEATURE

Khowutzun Development Corpora on partnered with Iron Workers 97 to hold a two‐week training session here at Quw'utsun Cultural and Conference Centre. It started on November 28 to December 9, 2022, with 14 par cipants. We discovered funds to help cover cost of lost wages of those Cowichan Tribes members who chose to do the training. There were six First Na ons that a ended this training session.

During the training, we brought on David Thomas, a Cowichan Tribes member, who has 10 years’ experience in working with rebar to share his knowledge with the students.

During the training the students are prac ced their trade skills, including tying, pu ng together prefabri‐cated models, and building columns, walls and slabs. The students learned about fall protec on and what is expected during a typical workday as an iron worker.

Our hope is that we will have all six students employed in the Rebar industry.