Cultural Safety Commitment

‍ Supporting Indigenous Clients

At Nicola Valley Shelter and Support Society (NVSSS), we are committed to providing culturally safe, inclusive, and respectful services for all, while honouring the Indigenous peoples whose traditional territories we serve. The Nlaka’pamux and Syilx (Okanagan) Nations.

We recognize the ongoing impacts of colonization, racism, and systemic barriers on Indigenous communities and are committed to supporting healing, equity, and self-determination through our work.

Our Commitment

We strive to ensure Indigenous clients feel physically, emotionally, spiritually, and culturally safe within our programs by:

• Promoting anti-racism and removing barriers within our services.

• Providing ongoing staff education in cultural safety, Indigenous history, and reconciliation.

• Respecting and welcoming Indigenous cultures, traditions, and practices.

• Building meaningful partnerships with local First Nations and Indigenous organizations.

Reconciliation in Action

NVSSS acknowledges the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action and the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls’ Calls for Justice. We support these commitments through:

• Ongoing learning and awareness.

• Culturally safe and trauma-informed services.

• Collaboration with Indigenous partners.

• Advocacy for equitable access to housing, health, and community supports.