Nanaimo vigil for victims and survivors of residential schools raises over $4K, hundreds of toys
-
Share on Facebook
-
Share on Twitter
- Copy Link
NANAIMO — A solemn vigil after the discovery of what’s believed to be remains of 215 Indigenous children at a former residential school raised a considerable amount of money.
The May 31 vigil in Maffeo Sutton Park raised over $4,000 for Kw’umut Lelum Child and Family Services. Hundreds of stuffed animals were also dropped off, to be cleaned and handed out to those in need.
Co-organizer Tsatassaya (Tracy) White said the idea for the toy donation came from Musqueam Elder Gina Grant since toys weren’t allowed at residential schools.
“They were separated from their families and territories without even a toy to comfort them,” White said in a release. “I know the money and toys collected will go to help our children in care and our families who are still suffering the effects of colonization.”
