First Nations of Northern Manitoba CFS Authority

NCNFCWC: A Beacon of Transformation and Unity

The Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation Family and Community Wellness Centre

The Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation Family and Community Wellness Centre (NCNFCWC) in Nelson House, Manitoba, stands as a testament to the resilience and dedication of the Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation (NCN). For over two decades, this center has been at the forefront of fostering family unity, cultural revival, and holistic well-being among the members of the Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation.

Nelson House, Manitoba

Felix Walker

Felix Walker, the CEO of NCNFCWC, reflects on his journey with the center: "I thoroughly enjoy working for my own community. I have been with NCNFCWC since 2001, and I have seen the progression and transformation of this organization from its humble beginnings to the organization that we have today." Under Walker's leadership, the center has evolved into a multifaceted hub that addresses the comprehensive needs of the community.

Felix Walker. the CEO of the Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation Family and Community Wellness Centre (NCNFCWC) in Nelson House, Manitoba

A Holistic Approach to Wellness

At the core of NCNFCWC's mission is the protection and preservation of the family unit. Walker explains, "Our first function, first and foremost, is the protection of children, keeping the family unit together, ensuring that our staffing levels are adequate to meet the needs of the community, and that we have programming that actually benefits families and assists them in overcoming the many obstacles that a lot of our community face."

One of the center's hallmark achievements is the establishment of the Circle of Care program. Walker elaborates, "The Circle of Care program integrates all the programs under the jurisdiction of the Family Wellness Centre-health-related services, child protection services, case management services, foster care-into an integrated service delivery model. This approach ensures that health and child and family services (CFS) collaborate to develop programming and case plans that meet the needs identified by the families themselves."

A view of Nelson House, Manitoba

Edith Moody

Edith Moody, the Family Enhancement Supervisor who has been with NCNFCWC for over 20 years, highlights the cultural dimension of their programs. "With the way we've been moving, culture is a big part of our Family Enhancement programs. Many of our clients have minimal exposure to our language and customs. It's very important that they learn Cree, which is the language we speak here in the community, and understand our history," she says. Moody has witnessed a significant shift over the past decade, with families reclaiming their roles as active caregivers. "Parents are now trying to take the responsibility back," she notes.

Felix Walker, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the Rediscover Families program, which reconnects families with their traditional natural environment, allowing them to rediscover their identities as individuals, caregivers, and community members.

Edith Moody the family Enhancement supervisor - NCNFCWC

Wanda Bunn

The reach of NCNFCWC extends beyond Nelson House, with offices in Thompson, Brandon, and Winnipeg. Wanda Bunn, the CFO of NCNFCWC, underscores the importance of accessibility: "Being able to provide services for our families within our community is one of our big successes. We support children in their homes with the removal of parents when necessary, and then work towards bringing the family back together."

Wanda Bunn the CFO of NCNFCWC

Challenges and Resilience

Despite its successes, NCNFCWC faces significant challenges. Walker identifies a lack of coordination and cooperation between community entities as a major hurdle. He also addresses the pervasive issue of negative stereotypes and racism. "We need to wrestle with the fact that we are not lazy or uncaring. We are actually the most resilient group that resides on planet Earth, considering everything we've overcome," he asserts. Housing and infrastructure issues, as well as the high number of single-parent families, add to the complexities the center navigates daily.

A Future of Hope and Unity

Through innovative programs, cultural revitalization, and unwavering dedication, NCNFCWC continues to make profound impacts on the lives of the Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation members. Walker, Moody, and Bunn, along with the rest of the NCNFCWC team, are committed to fostering a community where every member can thrive in a safe, supportive, and culturally rich environment.

As Walker aptly puts it, "Our achievements are not just about what we do but how we do it, by integrating our cultural values and traditions into every aspect of our work. This is what makes our journey and our success truly meaningful."

NCNFCWC office in Nelson House, Manitoba