Dryden Native Friendship Centre Staff, photo provided.
As another year is coming to a close, the Dryden Native Friendship Centre is looking forward to the year ahead.
Officials are thanking local organizations, community members and businesses for their generosity throughout 2021.
“When I think about Dryden, we have so many community members that are always there to champion the community,” says Executive Director Cheryl Edwards. “The City of Dryden, Nuclear Waste Management Organization for financial support with our Christmas Feast (which served 360 people), Loomex who assisted with the forest fire situation this past summer and so many generous community members who donated to help the families of the apartment fire that happened in May. The generosity of everyone was just amazing to these families so I definitely want to acknowledge all of them.”
Staff also extend their appreciation to the Kenora District Services Board, Waasegiizhig Nanaandawe’iyewigamig (WNHAC) in Kenora, Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation and area schools.
Most recently, Edwards tells us DNFC’s winter wear program supported 80 people.
“Jackets, ski pants, boots, mitts, hats, it was a really good endeavor by our staff and we would really like to acknowledge Marks Work Warehouse for what they did for us as well. It was a really great feeling to be able to get this winter wear out to those in need.”
Edwards stresses none of it would be possible without the dedication of their staff and they look forward to continue serving the community.
“We have very, very hard working staff here who are so creative and all of these programs would not be possible without their assistance, and of course the Ontario Federation of Indian Friendship centres provides so much assistance to us as well.”
Other highlights included the Indigenous Peoples Day Powwow, the first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, Elders Gathering, Youth Culture Camp and Creating Safer Spaces, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and LGBTQ+ events.
As for 2022, Edwards tells us what they hope to accomplish.
“We will continue to focus on our youth, our elders and general wellness in the community and a big part of that is culture with the Dryden Native Friendship Centre. But we hope to improve our services and definitely look at servicing all community members as well.”
Edwards adds she also looks forward to continue being part of the City of Dryden Working Circle.
