New concept neighborhood centre opens

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EDMONTON - Ma'mowe Child and Family Services Authority opened the first of 11 neighborhood centres in Edmonton last month, making services for children and families more community-friendly and lessening the number of agencies that families have to approach for help.

The new North Central Neighbourhood Centre is in the Rosslyn district. It offers a wide range of child and family services and referrals. Also prominent in bright and roomy surroundings is an Aboriginal ceremonial room, a community kitchen and a child care suite for children in need.

Co-chair Garry Gairdner is the Aboriginal co-chair of Ma'mowe's board of directors. He said, "the opening of this fantastic facility will be the sign everyone has been waiting for that there is indeed a change in the way we deliver our services."

On Oct. 11, Elders and board member Gerald Auger held a private ceremony to bless the place. The official opening was Oct. 20, attended by Ma'mowe service partners, politicians and community members. October 21 was designated Family Day, when the public came to participate in activities such as face painting and crafts.