Supporting Indigenous families in need in the NCR

In December, PSAC NCR’s Indigenous Action Circle (IAC) hosted a collection drive for the Odawa Native Friendship Centre’s Angel Tree Christmas campaign. Each year, Odawa’s Angel Tree provides Christmas gifts and supplies to hundreds of local First Nations, Inuit and Metis families who are in need. This includes gifts and stocking stuffers, non-perishable foods, cash donations, wrapping paper, tape, and Christmas treats like chocolates and candy canes.

The NCR’s IAC collected items from members across the region to support this crucial community work. We received many donations and support from Locals and regional committees like the Ottawa Area Council and the Ottawa Regional Women’s Committee. As members dropped off their gifts, the IAC greeted them with apple cider and cookies to celebrate the season.

The NCR’s IAC is honoured to collaborate with and support organizations like the Odawa Native Friendship Centre as we work to improve the lives of Indigenous, First Nations and Métis people in the NCR and across Turtle Island.

The IAC seeks to assist PSAC, the National Capital Region Council (NCRC) and the Locals that comprise the council in carrying out the actions outlined in the PSAC Statement of Principles on Indigenous Peoples’ Rights. They meet on the 4th Wednesday of each month virtually. To get involved with the IAC, visit their webpage.

Les Maiczan, Chair of the Indigenous Action Circle (IAC), stands with Gord Marshall, Chair of the Ottawa Area Council, and Burcu Gurkan, Chair of the Ottawa Regional Women’s Committee. They are surrounded by donations for the Angel Tree Christmas campaign.
Les Maiczan, Chair of the Indigenous Action Circle (IAC), stands with Gord Marshall, Chair of the Ottawa Area Council, and Burcu Gurkan, Chair of the Ottawa Regional Women’s Committee. They are surrounded by donations for the Angel Tree Christmas campaign.
Les Maiczan, Chair of the Indigenous Action Circle (IAC), and Steven Price, Secretary of the IAC, deliver donations to Odawa Native Friendship Centre.
Les Maiczan, Chair of the Indigenous Action Circle (IAC), and Steven Price, Treasurer of the IAC, deliver donations to Odawa Native Friendship Centre.