Can-Am Indian Friendship Centre of Windsor
The Can-Am Indian Friendship Centre of Windsor (CAIFC) is a nonprofit organization established in 1981 to support urban Indigenous communities in Windsor and Essex County, Ontario. Incorporated on June 8, 1981, and joining the Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centres (OFIFC) later that year, the centre focuses on culturally relevant programs addressing education, employment, health, and social services[3].

History

Originally incorporated to secure administrative funding, the CAIFC emerged from grassroots efforts to address systemic barriers faced by urban Indigenous populations. Founding members included Maryrose Barefoot Jones, Max Joseph Hedley, and Abraham Tanian Pone, among others[3].

Mission

The CAIFC aims to foster self-sufficiency and self-determination within the Indigenous community through culturally rooted initiatives. Its mission emphasizes integrating traditions into programming while advocating for Indigenous rights and equitable access to services[1][3][4].

Programs and Services

The centre operates diverse initiatives, including:

• Akwe:go and Wasa-Nabin: Children and youth programs promoting cultural identity and leadership[2][4].
• Apatisiwin: Employment training and skills development[2].
• Indigenous Healing and Wellness: Mental health, addiction support, and housing assistance[4][2].
• Urban Indigenous Healthy Living: Community health outreach and wellness activities[2][4].

As a registered charity (Business No. 847562410RR0001), the CAIFC relies on partnerships and donations to maintain its role as a cultural and social hub for Indigenous peoples in southwestern Ontario[5].

[1] https://caifc.ca [2] https://211ontario.ca/service/68569432/agency/can-am-indian-friendship-centre/ [3] https://ofifc.org/friendship-centre/can-am-indian-friendship-centre-of-windsor/ [4] https://www.eriestclairhealthline.ca/displayservice.aspx?id=192072 [5] https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/847562410RR0001-can-am-indian-friendship-centre-of-windsor/