Church and non-profit group join forces to provide workshops, mentorship, counselling and referral service for racialized Canadians.

Church and non-profit group join forces to provide workshops, mentorship, counselling and referral service for racialized Canadians.

Regina, Saskatchewan – Wesley United Church (WUC) and the Uganda Canadian Association of Saskatchewan (UCAS) have received funding from the United Way of Regina to implement a pilot project providing small group workshops, individual and family mentorship, as well as counselling and referral services to support clients navigating difficult issues, including racism. This need has intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“As we recognize and celebrate African Descent / Black History month we are reminded of our collective responsibility to stop racism and come to the understanding that all human beings belong to one human race or family. This is one of the goals of the UN International Decade for People of African Descent (2015-2024)–recognition of our shared humanity.”

-Christine Lwanga, UCAS Executive Director

WUC and UCAS recently entered into a mutually supportive partnership to embrace the wider community and increase the diversity of those accessing the services of both organizations.

The workshops, counselling and mentorship services will be offered to anyone, but a special invitation is extended to those of African descent, other racialized Canadians, and immigrants who may have been in Canada for some time and who require additional support with personal, family, and career planning/opportunities, or integration. Confidential counselling and mentorship for individuals, provided by certified social workers and other professionals, is available free of charge. Small group workshops will be provided for critical life skills such as improving family finances, managing student loans or other issues as identified by clients.

Intake is on-going through the UCAS office, at (306) 586-5220. The UCAS office is located in Wesley United Church, 3913 Hillsdale Avenue, in Regina. Registration and additional information is available on the UCAS website.

COVID-19 regulations related to group size, distancing, masking and sanitation are followed in providing these services. Services will be provided virtually when possible and when required.

UCAS has implemented a number of funded projects in Saskatchewan and nationally. The United Way funding provides a welcome opportunity to support members of UCAS, the Wesley United Church community and the general public during these unprecedented times of increased unemployment, isolation, anxiety, and uncertainty.