For over 25 years, Niwasa Kendaaswin Teg has been a foundation of support for Indigenous peoples in Hamilton, Brantford, and surrounding areas. As a multi-service, non-profit charitable organization, Niwasa Kendaaswin Teg is dedicated to offering a comprehensive range of culturally relevant services designed to support Indigenous individuals at every stage of life. From homelessness prevention to food security, culture and language revitalization to educational programs, Niwasa has consistently provided innovative, responsive, and high-quality services to address the unique needs of the Indigenous community. 

This past year alone, Niwasa Kendaaswin Teg served 6,341 individuals, making a tangible difference in the lives of many. One story that captures the transformative impact of Niwasa’s work comes from a parent in the Child and Family Centre. She shared how Niwasa helped her reconnect her children to their Indigenous roots after she had lost touch with her culture due to growing up in foster care. “It has been wonderful to access a program that helps my children to grow their roots and also fosters their knowledge of our Indigenous culture and identity,” she said. “Knowing that I can give my children these opportunities because of Niwasa is deeply meaningful to our family.” This sentiment reflects the core mission of Niwasa Kendaaswin Teg—rebuilding cultural identity and strengthening family bonds, one family at a time. 

Another vital aspect of Niwasa’s services is its Food Bank, which in 2024 alone served 8,775 individuals and 3,220 households. During the holiday season, Niwasa assisted the community by distributing 300 hampers, which included not only food for holiday meals but also gifts, hygiene supplies, and warm clothing such as touques and mittens. One service provider shared a moving account of how the food bank’s compassion and support deeply impacted one individual: “They felt heard and relieved that the food bank could provide the support they needed.” This simple yet profound act of listening and caring highlights the deep empathy embedded in every Niwasa program. 

Niwasa Kendaaswin Teg offers a comprehensive approach to homelessness prevention by addressing the root causes, recognizing that being houseless is linked to social, emotional, and cultural disconnection. Niwasa focuses on cultural skill-building programs in areas such as home management, budgeting, and healthy relationships which equip individuals with the practical tools needed for long-term stability. Integrating traditional knowledge, Niwasa empowers participants to overcome challenges, promoting resilience and self-sufficiency 

Equally noteworthy is Niwasa's Urban Farm, which serves as both a source of nutritious food and a community hub for food security programs. In 2024, the Urban Farm produced over 22,000 pounds of organic food for the community and generously donated 2,049 pounds of food to support the Food Bank. Along with its weekly market and workshops on canning, jarring, and preserving, the Urban Farm is an important part of Niwasa's efforts to build long-term food security in the community. 

Niwasa's commitment to youth development is also evident in the success of its NYAWEH Youth Programs, which celebrated their 20th anniversary in 2024. Program evaluations showed that 87% of participating youth felt that the program helped them stay in school, while 90% expressed that it made them feel proud to be Indigenous. These numbers reflect more than just academic achievement—they represent the cultivation of pride, self-esteem, and resilience. 

The impact of Niwasa Kendaaswin Teg's work is undeniable. By providing culturally grounded programs and services that address the diverse needs of the Indigenous community, Niwasa not only meets immediate needs but also fosters long-term empowerment and cultural resurgence. Whether through educational support, food security, or programs that help individuals reconnect with their culture, Niwasa Kendaaswin Teg is not just an organization; it is a vital force for positive change in the Indigenous community.