History
There were at least fourteen residential schools in British Columbia, the first opened in 1861, the last closed in 1984. Through their doors walked generations of First Nations children, the hostages of government and church policies that resulted in emotional, physical, sexual and spiritual abuse.

Our children were robbed of their families, culture, innocence, and in many instances...their lives. As adults, some died by suicide, drug and/or alcohol abuse, and even murder.

Today
The silence has been broken. The truth is unfolding throughout First Nations communities. Police investigations have been launched and the number of court cases grows. Journalists are now interested. Canadian society and politicians can no longer deny or ignore the devastating effects residential schools had on first Nations individuals, families and communities.

Positive Action
The Indian Residential School SURVIVORS Society (formerly the Provincial Residential School Project) is one of the positive results of First Nations and other governments coming together to deal with the impacts of residential schools. The Project was established in 1995 with a mandate from the First Nations Summit to provide help, hope healing, through services to all First Nations in British Columbia.

Individual
Crisis counselling
Support through the healing journey
Referral to community based services
Workshops on the effects of residential schools, healing models and spirituality
Information for survivors who are seeking justice in the criminal and civil processes
An advocate for funding to enable healing

Community
Support for creating healing centers and healing models
Support for creating healing terms
Training in crisis intervention, suicide prevention, sexual abuse issues and healing methods
Support community initiatives
Resource library
Help build partnerships
Raise awareness

Other
Educate the public and government on effects of residential schools
Advocate on behalf of survivors in the communities
Liaise between survivors, communities and governments
Educate caregivers