Compassion in Action Fund – Okanagan Nation Transition Emergency House

Way’ Members, the Okanagan Nation Transition Emergency House is opening their new program the ‘Compassion in Action Fund’ next year in January for those in need. Details are below:

The Okanagan Nation Transition Emergency House, in partnership with the Vancouver Foundation, is honoured to share the launch of the Compassion in Action Fund, beginning January 2026.

This initiative is inspired in part by the generosity and lived experience of Clasina van Bemmel, whose Compassion in Action Fund was created to support vulnerable women and children with dignity, immediacy, and care. Together, we aim to bring timely, respectful, and culturally grounded support to those in need.

This short-term pilot (December 2025 – March 2026) is guided by values of care, generosity, and collective strength. The fund seeks to nurture safety, healing, and stability while informing long-term, community-led approaches to funding and support. While the funding is limited, we hope to assist as many of our people as possible within the availability of our resources.

Our Guiding Principles:

• Compassionate assistance without barriers
• Upholding Indigenous cultural integrity
• Flexible and responsive support
• Transparent and accountable processes
• Strengthening community care and reciprocity

Areas of Support:

• Food Security: grocery cards, hampers, traditional foods, Elder meals
• Emergency Basic Needs: hygiene items, clothing, essentials, emergency transportation
• Cultural & Healing Supports: Elder and healer honoraria, medicines, cultural activities
• Crisis & Relocation Support: emergency accommodations, safe travel, relocation assistance
• Family, Youth & Child Wellness: childcare, youth programs, school supplies, family wellness initiatives

We invite those in need, community members, and partner organizations to connect with us at xatus@onteh.org. All requests are treated with respect and confidentiality.

Through this fund, we hope to strengthen the bonds of care in our community, provide immediate relief, and honor the values that hold us together.