The Waseskun Healing Centre is a non-profit Indigenous organization dedicated to the holistic healing of Indigenous men since 1988. In collaboration with the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) and the Correctional Service of Québec (CSQ), Waseskun offers a transformative space for those seeking to heal from intergenerational trauma, addiction and criminal behavior.
Waseskun is the only Indigenous healing facility East of Manitoba. The Centre works with Indigenous communities in Ontario, Quebec and the Atlantic Maritime regions. We offer personalized counseling, traditional cultural practices and professional support to help participants break cycles of trauma and addiction, and build a healthier, more balanced future.
The programs offered at the Centre are firmly rooted in the traditional practices and values of Indogenous Peoples, essential to the healing process. Drawing on traditional cultural teachings and ceremonies, Waseskun fosters a safe and respectful environment, enabling Residents to bring about changes in negative lifestyle habits and enhance each Resident's self-esteem and self-concept as an Aboriginal person.
This Healing process encourages and empowers Residents to reconnect with their heritage, re-establish the link with their cultural values, and learn how to lead a healthy lifestyle and develop useful skills to help them reach their full potential.
Waseskun is a Cree word for the moment after the storm,
when the clouds begin to dissipate,
revealing the blue of the sky and the first rays of the sun
Waseya Healing Program
Waseya, meaning “Light of the Spirit” in the Cree language, is the umbrella for most of Waseskun's programs. Its aim is to promote holistic healing to facilitate the successful reintegration of Residents into their families, communities and nations. By addressing healing of mind, body and spirit, Waseskun helps to break cycles of violence and trauma, providing a safe space to process underlying traumas.
The program also offers a culturally adapted approach to
the needs of Indigenous populations.
Traditions and Spirituality
Waseskun recognizes the importance
of reconnecting individuals with their cultural heritage
as a vital component to their mental health and well-being.
That's why the programs offered at Waseskun are deeply
rooted in traditional practices and values,
which are at the heart of the Healing process.
Craftwork
Each Resident who has created the handcrafted piece receives 90% of the sale price, thus fully valuing his work and talent.
The remaining 10% is allocated to cover the logistical costs of running the sale.
Testimonials
I came to Waseskun and I have to say it was the best choice I made to work on my addiction problem.
Donny
At Waseskun I learned to open my heart and talk, it has had positive repercussions in my relationships with my family and friends.
Hugues
It was nice to be able to reconnect with the old way of living, and I feel it was very beneficial for me.
Josh
I came here to find new ways to restart my life and become a better person.
Elijah