A new workshop aimed at supporting the emotional and social growth of children will be available to families from Garden Hill and other Island Lake communities starting later this month. The Well-being Workshop for Children, run by Island Lake First Nations Family Services, will take place over two weekends in Winnipeg.
The free program is designed for children aged 10 to 14 and will be led by facilitators Michael and Jayla. Organizers say the sessions will give kids a safe space to express their feelings and learn positive ways to care for themselves. The first session runs June 27 and 28, with a second session on July 4 and 5. Both run from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the agency’s sub-office at 103-1821 Wellington Avenue.
The workshop joins the agency’s existing summer lineup, including a beading circle on June 17 and the Neechi Camp from July 2 to 6. Island Lake First Nations Family Services provides support to more than 10,000 people from Garden Hill Anisininew Nation, St. Theresa Point Anisininew Nation, Wasagamack Anisininew Nation, and Red Sucker Anisininew Nation. Children who complete the workshop will receive gifts and certificates.
The announcement comes as the Manitoba government has added $29.2 million to the child and family services system for the 2026-27 year. The province says the increase brings total funding to $458 million, with a combined $77.3 million in increases since the 2023-24 fiscal year.
