The Hamilton-Wentworth Chapter of Native Women Inc. is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to serving Indigenous women in the Hamilton area through advocacy, support, and shelter services. Established in 1976, the organization operates the Native Women's Centre, which provides emergency shelter and community support programs that prioritize traditional healing practices and cultural sensitivity.

History and Background

The Hamilton-Wentworth Chapter of Native Women Inc. was founded in 1976 as part of a broader movement to support Indigenous women and address the unique challenges they face, including family violence, homelessness, and systemic conflict. The organization is a registered charity under the Canada Revenue Agency with the business registration number 118951987RR0001.

Mission and Services

The Native Women's Centre offers a safe shelter for Indigenous women and their children experiencing crises related to violence or homelessness. Their services are inclusive, welcoming women regardless of age, ancestry, culture, place of origin, or sexual orientation. Emphasis is placed on providing culturally appropriate support through traditional healing approaches.

The Centre’s programming includes:

• Emergency shelter and transitional housing
• Outreach programs, including winter coat assistance and school essentials for children
• Family support and violence prevention services
• Anti-human trafficking crisis response
• Indigenous healthy babies and children health initiatives

These services aim to empower Indigenous women, promote healing, and foster resilience within the community.

Community Impact

The Hamilton-Wentworth Chapter of Native Women Inc. works closely with Indigenous community members and other organizations to raise awareness about violence against Indigenous women and the effects of homelessness. Through education, advocacy, and direct support, the Centre helps address the disproportionate impact of violence on Indigenous women in Hamilton and surrounding areas.

Governance and Funding

As a registered charitable organization, the Hamilton-Wentworth Chapter of Native Women Inc. complies with Canadian regulatory standards for nonprofits. It relies on donations, grants, and community support to fund its programs and maintain its operations.

External Relations

The organization collaborates with Indigenous and non-Indigenous partners, including provincial programs affiliated with the Ontario Native Women's Association (ONWA), to enhance service delivery and expand its reach in supporting Indigenous women’s healing and empowerment.

This summary encapsulates the role and services of the Hamilton-Wentworth Chapter of Native Women Inc., highlighting its longstanding commitment to Indigenous women’s welfare in the Hamilton region.