FERGUS – Indigenous people create crafts such as dream catchers, medicine bags and beaded earrings during Creative Circles here every other week.
It’s one piece of the wholistic healing offered by Southwest Ontario Aboriginal Health Access Centre (SOAHAC).
Creative Circle organizer and SOAHAC case manager Melissa Hatt said it’s a small social gathering where people of all ages can make something they’re proud of.
It’s a chance to access community and culture while developing new skills.
Hatt said “coming together in a circle to do these crafts” supports people’s physical, spiritual, emotional and mental health.
“You see the impact on individuals when they’re forming these relationships and developing strengths or a sense of pride in whatever it is they are creating,” Hatt said.
The SOAHAC Creative Circle happens in Fergus every other Monday from 2 to 4pm at the Fergus CMHA office at 234 St. Patrick St. E. It is also offered at the SOAHAC office in Cambridge at 745 Coronation Blvd.
The Creative Circles are open to anyone in Wellington County or Waterloo Region who identifies as First Nation, Inuit or Métis.
The next two Creative Circles in Fergus are scheduled for Aug. 21 and Sept. 18. There is no fee to attend, but registration is required (email mhatt@soahac.on.ca).
For more information, follow SOAHAC on Facebook and Instagram, or email waterloowellingtoninfo@soahac.on.ca.
