Words ashley morris
Photo NILTUO Child & Family Services Society
On April 16, 2025, NIȽ TU,O Child and Family Services proudly hosted an unforgettable HEUIST TŦE ḴELAḴ (Honour the Babies) event. Families, staff, and representatives from local organizations came together to celebrate the babies born over the past year from the seven communities NIȽ TU,O serves.
This year, the HEUIST TŦE ḴELAḴ event took place at Saanich Fair Grounds and was attended by many community members along with NIȽ TU,O staff, various representatives from local organizations, along with six new babies.
Throughout the 12th annual gathering of its kind, families shared laughter, stories and delicious treats as they celebrated new life. Exciting gifts were prepared for the new babies and their families, generously donated by local organizations.
During the ceremony, each baby was lovingly wrapped in a red blanket featuring the
NIȽ TU,O logo and was adorned with a woven wool headband, drawn from long-standing Coast Salish traditions. Elders and Knowledge Holders offered a series of meaningful blessings to welcome each child into the world.
As the event came to a close, guests left with goody bags filled with gifts and prizes, a reflection of the generosity and support of the local community. NIȽ TU,O extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended and to the organizations who helped to make the day special through their donations. NIȽ TU,O looks forward to continuing to support these little ones and their families through every stage of their journey.
Every child is a precious gift. NIȽ TU,O reaffirms this and its passionate commitment to supporting children and families through ceremonies like this one. We look forward to seeing these young ones grow and thrive, supported by their families and communities.
Anyone interested in receiving support through NIȽ TU,O’s Family Strengthening Programs and Support Services are encouraged to learn more at www.niltuo.ca or by calling 250-544-1400 and asking for a confidential intake.
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