The Maniwaki Native Friendship Centre officially opens its Gatineau service centre

The Maniwaki Native Friendship Centre officially opened its Gatineau service centre on May 23. With their new location at the Asticou Centre at 241 Cité-des-Jeunes Gatineau, the BGIS on-site team aims to improve the quality of life of urban Indigenous people by providing them with a safe and welcoming place. The Centre connects the city's Indigenous population with local communities through communication and cultural awareness. To facilitate transitions, it promotes healthy living through a holistic approach, offers cultural activities and cultivates support services. Advocacy, information and referrals to programs and services developed for Indigenous families living or visiting in the Ottawa-Gatineau area.

The opening day was marked by the great fanfare. Several members from various Indigenous communities were present. Representatives from the City of Gatineau, Public Services Procurement Canada and the Government of Quebec also joined the festivities. On behalf of BGIS, Vanessa Dreckmann and Wade Griffin were joined by Asticou Property Team, Michel Gravelle and Véronique Carle.

For the occasion, the Director delivered a very inclusive opening address, followed by a prayer by an Elder and the performance of a traditional song. A guided tour of the carefully developed site by the Centre members, traditional dances, a traditional tipi and an Indigenous fashion parade were highlights of the evening. The official opening of the Centre d'Amitié Autochtone de Maniwaki, a Gatineau service centre, was memorable and will certainly bring the region's community together in Asticou around Indigenous culture.