Mamas for Mamas

On Canada’s National Indigenous Peoples’ Day, we reflect on the profound importance of language revitalization for Indigenous cultures and acknowledge the pivotal role settlers can play in this crucial work. Languages are more than mere means of communication; they are repositories of culture, tradition, and identity. For the Syilx Peoples, the Nsyilxcen language embodies their history, knowledge, and relationship with the land. Revitalizing Nsyilxcen is not just about preserving words; it is about sustaining the worldview, wisdom, and spiritual practices that have been cultivated over millennia.

The Syilx Peoples, the rightful stewards of the land known today as the Okanagan, have faced significant challenges due to colonization, including the suppression of their language, culture and rights to parenting. Despite these adversities, they have persevered, and their efforts to reclaim and revitalize Nsyilxcen are a testament to their resilience and strength.

Settlers have a vital role in supporting this revitalization process. By learning about the history and contributions of the Syilx Peoples, advocating for and supporting language programs, and fostering environments that respect and celebrate Indigenous languages, settlers can be active allies in this movement. Engaging in this work not only honours the heritage and rights of the Syilx Peoples but also enriches our collective understanding and appreciation of the cultural tapestry that forms Canada.

Mamas for Mamas, as a Métis-founded organization, is deeply committed to supporting these efforts through our Indigenous Support Program. We strive to provide resources, advocacy, and community support that empower Indigenous families. Our program is designed to respect and uphold the traditions and languages of Indigenous peoples, fostering an environment where cultural heritage can thrive. By working together, we can ensure that the voices, languages, and cultures of Indigenous Peoples are not only supported but celebrated.

Donate “Back to School” essentials to Mamas for Mamas, and IKEA Richmond will match the value.

From June 28 – July 31, 2024, donations for Mamas for Mamas Backpack Program will be collected at IKEA Richmond to provide vital school supplies to 1000+ children and youth who begin each year without proper essentials at school and in the home. Together, we can support 500 local families.

Every donation, no matter how small, can make a big difference for a child in our community. 

Two ways you can make a difference:

You donate. IKEA Richmond matches: For every IKEA “Back to School” item donated at IKEA Richmond from June 28 – July 31, 2024, IKEA Richmond will match with similar products up to a maximum of $5000 retail value. This means each contribution will go even further in supporting local families. A list of suggested products including backpacks, lunch bags, food containers, chargers, desks and more can be found below.

Non-IKEA essentials: IKEA Richmond will support as a drop-off location for non-IKEA Back to School essentials. This includes rulers, erasers, geometry sets, memory USB sticks, and calculators.

Donations of IKEA and non-IKEA Back to School essentials for Mamas for Mamas Backpack program are accepted at IKEA Richmond, 3320 Jacombs Road, Richmond, BC V6V 1Z6 during store opening hours.  Look for the small wooden house located at the store entrance near Småland!

We are so excited to announce that we are the charity of choice for the 7th annual Harvest Ladies Amateur Two Ball Golf Tournament, wonderfully presented by The Harvest Ladies Golf Club and their returning title sponsor, Touchstone Law Group LLP. Join us on Monday, July 22, 2024, for a day filled with fun, solidarity, kindness and community support.

Event Details:

Date: Monday, July 22, 2024

Entry Fee: Members $195 / Non-Members $235

Registration: 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM

Shotgun Start: 11:00 AM

Registration to enter the tournament opens on April 17, 2024, at 1:00 PM. There are a couple of spots still open, so make sure to secure your registration!

Entry Fee Includes:

- 18 holes of golf with a power cart and practice balls

- Elegant 3-course plated dinner

- Access to an extraordinary prize table

Tournament Information:

- This 2-player team event is limited to 120 golfers, so register ahead of time!

- A current valid Golf Canada handicap is required

- Handicap limit: 36 (Note: a maximum of 10 strokes between partners)

- Prizes awarded after dinner for best low-gross and best low-net between two partners, KP, longest drive, and other special awards

Practice Round:

- Available on Sunday, July 21, after 1 PM at the local rate for non-members, including range balls.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to play at one of the most beautiful courses in our community while supporting our organization and the families that we serve. Gather your golf partner and secure your registration today!

We can’t wait to see you there!

We are beyond excited to share that we have been selected as the charity of choice for the one-year anniversary celebration of California Closets “CC” Vancouver!

The event is taking place in California Closets’ stunning Vancouver showroom, where you’ll be able to explore their custom-designed and curated solutions for your home. During the event, you will be able to enjoy local wines and a delicious grazing platter while networking with like-minded fellow community members.

Throughout the event, there will be a lucky draw and silent auction with the opportunity to win one of six California Closets gift certificates and other prizes! But wait there is more! The California Closets team has also provided 10 bottles of wine towards the luck draw! Plus, if you book a design consultation during the event, you’ll be able to receive $250 in free accessories for your upcoming project.

Event details:

Date: Thursday, June 20, 2024
Time: 3:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Address: 5049 Still Creek Ave, Burnaby, BC

California Closets “CC” Vancouver have been so supportive of Mamas for Mamas, shining a bright light onto our organization and with this, providing a light of hope for our clients. In honour of this shimming hope, we are so excited to be ringing in the summer solstice with this amazing group of altruistic people. It makes sense that on the longest day of light in the year, the California Closets team has shared that they will match silent auction bids up to $5,000! This incredible generosity will make such a huge difference for at-risk mamas and families in our community.

Our silent auction is now live! Be sure to check it out and place your bids before it closes!

We are excited to see you there!

The Government of B.C. is providing $10 million in funding towards air conditioning units for low income households and for individuals who have received a recommendation letter from their regional health authority’s Home Care Program. Apply to the Energy Conservation Assistance Program (ECAP) to be considered for the air conditioner offer.

Eligibility:
You must have a residential electricity account with one of the following utilities:
BC Hydro, FortisBC, New Westminster, Grand Forks, Summerland, Penticton or Nelson Hydro
You must live in a detached house, duplex, townhouse or manufactured/mobile home.

Qualifying household income table:

Your combined household income must be below the maximum shown for your household size. Proof of income is required.

1 person    $39,700
2 people    $49,500
3 people    $60,800
4 people    $73,800
5 people    $83,700
6 people    $94,400
7 or more people  $105,100

DM us for information as to how to apply!

A shimmering moment from the Kelowna Karma Market last week.

We are always so excited to meet our littlest community members— it is one of the best parts of our day (asides from having the honour to support those in need!)

If you need to book a Karma Market appointment, please check out our website for more info or send us a DM for guidance 💗

We are beyond excited to share that we have been selected as the charity of choice for the one-year anniversary celebration of California Closets “CC” Okanagan!

The event is taking place in California Closets’ stunning Kelowna showroom, where you’ll be able to explore their custom-designed and curated solutions for your home.

During the event, you will be able to enjoy local Sandhill wines and a delicious grazing platter while networking with like-minded fellow community members. Throughout the event, there will be a lucky draw and silent auction with the opportunity to win one of six California Closets gift certificates and other prizes!

But wait there is more! The California Closets team has also provided 10 bottles of wine towards the luck draw! Plus, if you book a design consultation during the event, you’ll be able to receive $250 in free accessories for your upcoming project.

Event details:

Date: Thursday, June 6, 2024
Time: 3:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: 1217 Water St, Kelowna, BC

California Closets “CC” Okanagan have been so supportive of our organization in their first year of business in the Okanagan. Even before their doors officially opened, they endeavoured to give back to their new community. Their one-year anniversary celebration is no different as the California Closets team has shared that they will match silent auction bids up to $5,000! This incredible generosity will make such a huge difference for at-risk mamas and families in our community. Our silent auction is now live! Be sure to check it out and place your bids before it closes 💗

We are excited to see you there!

Overflowing with gratitude and heartfelt appreciation! Today, we extend our sincerest thanks to Lokhia for their extraordinary act of kindness. Their generous donation of 200 units of all-natural anti-nausea tablets to our branches in Vancouver and Kelowna is nothing short of a game-changer for our pregnant clients enduring the relentless waves of morning sickness.

Morning sickness can be an overwhelming challenge, particularly for those already navigating the complexities of poverty and financial insecurity. For many expectant parents, the inability to access effective remedies due to financial constraints only exacerbates the physical and emotional toll of this condition, in addition to loss of work. It’s a harsh reality that no parent-to-be should have to face alone.

But Lokhia’s game changing donation will offer increased support to these resilient mamas. With their donation of all natural anti-nausea tablets, we can now offer relief and comfort to those who need it most, ensuring that every expecting parent, regardless of their financial circumstances, can experience moments of tranquility amid the storm of morning sickness.

Thank you, Lokhia, for your unwavering commitment to uplifting and supporting clients as they journey through their pregnancies. Your generosity will leave an indelible mark on the lives of countless mothers and parents. We are profoundly grateful.

The Harvest Golf Club will be hosting the 7th annual Harvest Ladies Amateur Two Ball Golf Tournament, presented by the Harvest Ladies Golf Club and their returning Title Sponsor, Touchstone Law Group LLP on Monday, July 22nd, 2024. The Harvest Ladies Amateur Two Ball Golf Tournament attracts an annual audience of 120 female golf enthusiasts and raises crucial funds for our organization– uplifting female golf enthusiasts within a male-dominated sport while simultaneously supporting women and families in our community.

We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to last year’s sponsors for their continued support of this wonderful event. Your commitment last year provided $37,000 towards our at-risk comprehensive program. We are so grateful for these sponsor’s continued support in the upcoming 2024 tournament.

We also warmly welcome potential new sponsors to join in support of this year’s upcoming event. As with previous tournaments, the Harvest Golf Club offers sponsorship levels including Major, Hole in One, Hole/On Course, and Boutique sponsorships. This year, they are excited to introduce additional sponsorship opportunities in the form of Cart Sponsor and Driving Range Sponsor.

Sponsorship Benefits Can Include:
- Company logo on promotional materials
- Recognition in tournament communications and on the Harvest website
- Exposure to a wide audience of golf enthusiasts and local community members
- Opportunity to demonstrate your organization’s commitment to community support

We are excited about the possibilities this year’s tournament holds and hope you will join us and the Harvest Golf Club in making it a success.

For sponsorship inquiries, please contact [email protected].

As mamas, our journey is one of boundless love, relentless dedication, and unwavering support. Our organization is one of acceptance, where the vibrancy of diversity is not just acknowledged but celebrated. As Pride Month unfurls its rainbow-hued banner, it’s a poignant reminder that our commitment to inclusivity transcends a mere calendar month. We stand tall, advocating for and uplifting families of all shapes and sizes, every day, every hour, every heartbeat.

Each family is unique, a place of belonging, love, resilience, and courage. We embrace this tapestry of diversity, cherishing the myriad of colors that adorn our kinship. From single-parent households to blended families, from multigenerational homes to 2SLGBTQIA+ families, our arms are open wide, ready to embrace every soul seeking solace and belonging.

For us, Pride isn’t just a month; it’s a lifelong commitment to fostering an environment where love knows no bounds. Our 2SLGBTQIA+ siblings and their families are not merely allies; they are integral threads in the rich tapestry of humanity. We honor their journey, their struggles, and their triumphs, recognizing the beauty in their love and the resilience in their spirit.

As mamas, we recognize the importance of representation and visibility. We strive to create spaces where every family feels seen, heard, and valued. Through our actions and words, we pave the way for a future where acceptance isn’t just an ideal but a lived reality. We advocate for inclusive policies, challenge harmful stereotypes, and amplify the voices of marginalized communities.

In our daily interactions, we instill in our children the values of empathy, compassion, and respect. We teach them that love comes in many forms and that families, in all forms, are built on the foundation of love. We raise them to be allies, to stand up against injustice, and to celebrate the beautiful mosaic of humanity.

Mamas for Mamas FREE Program Offering!

Mamas Program - ADHD: Attention Different, not Deficit & Anxiety

Join us in this 6-week online group aimed to support anyone who has, or suspects they may have ADHDifference and how this can feed into anxiety. This group will help you make sense of the relationship between ADHD and anxiety. Using a strengths-based approach, we will explore ADHD’s quirks and strengths and learn strategies on how to embrace them to support you and your goals.

Join the group for more information and to participate: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mamasprogramadhd

For those who are unable to participate in the live Zoom sessions, we warmly welcome you to join the program page to view the recorded sessions and posted content. You do not need to have your camera turned on to participate in the live sessions. For those who do not have access to Facebook please email [email protected]

We are beyond thrilled and honoured to share that Mamas for Mamas has been recognized as the gold winner for “Best Local Charity” and the silver winner for “Best Non-Profit Organization” through Kelowna Now! This recognition is a testament to the incredible support and love from our amazing community, and we couldn’t be prouder.

To everyone who voted for us, your unwavering support means the world to us. Your votes are not just a symbol of your belief in our work, but they also fuel our passion and commitment to serving those in need. Every donation, volunteer hour, and word of encouragement empowers us to continue making a difference in the lives of families and individuals who turn to us for support. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you!

We would also like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to our fellow winners. A huge shout-out to , an organization that does incredible work for our furry friends, ensuring they find loving homes and the care they deserve. Additionally, we want to recognize , which provides vital services and support to women and children facing domestic violence. Your dedication and hard work make our community a better, safer place, and we are grateful to work alongside such inspiring organizations.

This recognition is not just for us, but for everyone who is part of our journey – our volunteers, donors, partners, and the families we serve. Together, we are creating a supportive and compassionate community where everyone can thrive. Let’s continue to lift each other up and work together to bring hope, support, and love to those who need it most.

Thank you once again for this incredible honour. Here’s to many more years of making a positive impact together!

With heartfelt gratitude,
The Mamas for Mamas Team

P.S. Swipe for our founder Shannon’s reaction to our news! She is a proud mama.

We are so excited to share that, thanks to the incredible dedication of OVAD, $6866.00 has been raised to support Camp CNWIT. This amazing work will ensure that Deaf and hard-of-hearing children in the Okanagan will have the opportunity to attend a life-changing summer camp this year. This camp provides a unique and enriching experience, offering a safe and supportive environment where these children can connect, learn, and grow.

To OVAD, your tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to making a difference have not gone unnoticed by our team. Your contribution will leave a lasting impact on the lives of the children who will attend Camp CNWIT. This tangible support helps to create a space where these children can build confidence, develop friendships, and enjoy a sense of belonging.

Our heartfelt thanks also go out to the incredible sponsors who made this event possible. Your generosity and support have been vital in achieving this fundraising goal. Each of you has played a significant role in making this dream a reality for many children:


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In addition, and played essential roles in promoting and advertising our event, ensuring widespread awareness and support.

Special thanks to (Rob) for supporting us and OVAD to bring laughter and joy, and to for hosting us at their fantastic venue, making the event truly memorable.

CNIWT Deaf & Hard of Hearing Family Camp

OVAD: https://www.facebook.com/groups/119388172092897/

A heartwarming day at Helen's Acres as families joined hands and hearts to sow seeds of compassion and nourishment.

Our farm volunteer day was a celebration of community, sustainability, and the joy of giving back. With each tender plant placed into the earth, and every cluck from our cherished chickens, we were reminded of the profound impact of working together to nurture both the land and those in need.

From the vibrant veggies destined to support food-insecure families across the Okanagan, to the farm fresh eggs laid by our beloved hens, every contribution embodies the spirit of solidarity and care.

We extend our deepest gratitude to all the dedicated volunteers whose unwavering commitment helped turn this day into a beautiful reality. And a special thank you to Penny, the sustainable nourishment program visionary, whose tireless efforts continue to inspire us all. Together, we sow seeds of hope and harvest a future filled with abundance for all.

Meet the incredible minds steering the ship at Mamas for Mamas – our dedicated Board of Directors. Comprised of passionate individuals from diverse backgrounds, they bring a wealth of expertise and a shared commitment to our goal of supporting families in need. From seasoned professionals in finance, law, and marketing to dynamic community leaders, each member plays a crucial role in guiding our organization towards positive impact. Community members are always welcome to contact them for their strategic insights and unwavering dedication to transparency. At Mamas for Mamas, we believe in open communication and accountability, ensuring that every decision made by our board aligns with our values and serves the communities we’re honored to serve. Together, we’re building a brighter future for families in need, one empowered step at a time.

Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) is a severe form of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy that can lead to dehydration, weight loss, and other complications. While morning sickness is horrible, hyperemesis gravidarum is another thing altogether. May is HG Awareness Month, dedicated to raising awareness about this debilitating condition and providing support to those affected by it.

Are you/were you pregnant and extremely sick?
You may have/have had Hyperemesis Gravidarum.
HG is not just “morning sickness”.

Some of the signs and symptoms are...

-severe nausea and/or vomiting
-inability to eat or drink normally
-difficulty with daily activities

Self-advocating, while intimidating, is essential to get proper treatment.

Join “Hyperemesis Gravidarum Canada Community Chat” on Facebook or “.canada” on Instagram to connect with Canadian mothers and families affected by Hyperemesis Gravidarum.

We are so grateful for Hyperemesis Gravidarum Canada who offer a network of mamas to connect, and offer support and solidarity. If you are experiencing hyperemesis gravidarum, you are not alone.

Earlier this month, Mamas For Mamas teamed up with The Okanagan Valley Association of the Deaf alongside Train Wreck Comedy for a fantastic fundraising show at the Kelowna Curling Club. The event took place on Friday, May 3, and it was an incredible night filled with laughter, generosity, and community spirit– raising an impressive $6,866 for this cause. Your support is truly invaluable and helps us make a significant impact in the lives of these children and their families.

We are thrilled to share that the proceeds from this event will support our efforts to provide deaf and hard-of-hearing children in the BC Interior, along with their families, an unforgettable experience at Camp CNWIT in late August. This initiative aims to create lasting memories and offer valuable support to these amazing kids and their families.

To everyone who attended, donated, and supported this event—thank you! Your participation and generosity help us continue our goal to support families and create positive experiences for deaf and hard-of-hearing children in our community.

Together, we are making a difference!

CNIWT Deaf & Hard of Hearing Family Camp

Are you ready to make a real difference in the lives of families across our communities? Join us at Mamas for Mamas, where you’ll step into a world where every hug heals and every hand-up extended creates ripples of transformation.

Whether you’re seeking employment or looking to lend your time and talents as a volunteer, there’s a place for you in our ever-growing family.

Employment Opportunities: Dive into a career where purpose meets passion— we’re seeking individuals who are ready to roll up their sleeves and pave the way for a brighter tomorrow. With opportunities for growth, professional development, and meaningful impact, your journey with Mamas for Mamas is just beginning.

Volunteer Roles: Join the heartbeat of our organization! Whether you’re lending a listening ear at our support groups, organizing donation drives, or spreading awareness through advocacy and outreach, your commitment to service is the heartbeat of our movement.

Why Mamas for Mamas? Because here, we believe that every individual has the power to create change, and every act of kindness has the potential to ignite a revolution of love and empowerment. By joining our ranks, you’re not just signing up for a job or volunteer role – you’re becoming a part of a movement that’s redefining what it means to support, uplift, and empower one another.

Join Us Today: Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a newcomer to the world of philanthropy, there’s a place for you at Mamas for Mamas. Let’s create a brighter future for mamas, families, and communities everywhere. Together, we rise.

Our branches in Kelowna, Vancouver and Kitchener-Waterloo want to show some major gratitude for Simpson Strong-Tie and their wonderful donation of over 500 school supply kits that will help low-income children across all three branches.

Simpson Strong-Tie is one of the largest suppliers of structural building products, and each year, they hold an annual “Do What You Can Day.” Just as Simpson Strong-Tie endeavours to research and support the development of physical infrastructure globally, their team helped to “build up” the confidence of so many young scholars across Canada.

The company’s founder, Barc Simpson developed nine principles and values that structure the work of the company. Value number eight, giving back, has been designated for “Do What You Can Day.”

Misty Gould, who coordinates Simpson Strong-Tie’s “Do What You Can Day,” shares:

“We’re all so fortunate. No matter what each of our personal situation is, we know that there are many others in this world who will never have the opportunities we’ve had. It is our responsibility to reach out, in whatever manner we can, to support others. We’re all connected in some way and are all part of a greater community. It’s important to make what impact you can – you may not have the financial means that others might have but whatever you can do, do it. Look for small ways to give back every day. Help out your neighbor, make time for others, do what you can.”

Thank you so much to the team at Simpson Strong-Tie for this incredible gift of confidence for so many school kids across Canada. This donation will ensure that children no matter their economic status can have the same opportunities to follow their dreams. Thank you for providing them the tools to build their futures.

Cerebelly has lovingly donated 25 pallets of nutrient-dense baby food. We will be splitting this support between our Kelowna, Vancouver and Calgary branches.

Our in-house quality control specialist, Baby Emi, has much to say about this incredible in-kind donation.

Upon taste-testing the Sweet Potato Mango puree, Baby Emi declared, “Bubbles! More More Ma Ma.” Now, if anyone has ever met an almost 18-month-old, this review is essentially equivalent to five stars.

We believe that ensuring a stable food supply and proper nutrition is critical for low-income families and their children. And so does Cerebelly, whose baby food has been specially designed by a pediatric neurosurgeon. Adequate nutrition is essential for the physical and cognitive development of children. During early childhood especially, the brain undergoes rapid growth and development. Nutrient-rich diets, particularly those containing essential vitamins and minerals, support this critical phase.

For low-income families, a stable food supply alleviates the stress of daily survival, allowing parents to focus on other aspects of life, such as employment and education. When families do not have to worry about where their next meal will come from, they can fight poverty more effectively. This stability also fosters a sense of security and well-being within the household, contributing to better mental health for both parents and children.

We are so grateful for Cerebelly and this incredibly generous in-kind donation. This generosity will help so many families access the kind of food security and nutrition that empowers and nourishes bodies to rise from poverty. This is a gift of stability and nourishment that will help support so many little ones’ brain development, setting these babies up for success as they grow up into contributing members of our community.

Thank you, Cerebelly!