Our Vision
Recovery by Nature will be vital in eradicating the separation of babies from their mothers due to a history of substance use, leading to recovery for mothers and their families, and creating mentally, physically, spiritually and emotionally healthier communities.
What is the Recovery by Nature Foundation?
Located on Wuikinuxv territory in Rivers Inlet, this repurposed fishing lodge will offer a safe space for mothers to heal and bond with their babies in a nature-based setting. This program will provide an essential alternative to the increasingly unsuccessful and institutional treatment facilities that are based in colonialism and restricted to the confines of the city.
In addition to trauma and addiction counselling, women will receive guidance and support from Elders, Knowledge Holders, and Birth Keepers. They will be encouraged to take time to explore nature and, in turn, reconnect with themselves and their culture.
The tranquil setting where healing begins
Why This Program is Essential
"The health of communities depends on the health of mothers, as guardians of future generations."
Many mothers who are unable to access support and experience safety for themselves suffer the forcible removal of their newborn babies, further compounding intense generational trauma. This trauma is especially profound and common for Indigenous women.
The residential school and 60's scoop era continues today in what is called the millennial scoop - the disproportionately high removal rate of babies and children from Indigenous mothers and families. In order to strengthen communities, women require support, safety, and time for healing.
The Crisis We're Addressing
of children in foster care are Indigenous, despite making up only 7.7% of all children in Canada
of Indigenous women who were in foster care have been assaulted
of our focus is on keeping babies with their mothers through supporting maternal recovery
The Perfect Location for Healing
Located in Wuikinuxv territory at Rivers Inlet, in the serene and aptly named Sleepy Bay
Sleepy Bay from above - a sanctuary surrounded by ancient forest
Natural Sanctuary
Where two rivers converge, creating a place of abundance and tranquility. Accessible only by float plane or boat, this location provides a safe refuge away from urban traumas.
Existing Infrastructure
Buildings ready for renovation, water and sanitation systems, and full equipment. This makes the project financially viable compared to starting from scratch.
Community Support
The Wuikinuxv community supports the development of this program, ensuring cultural connection and local backing.
Existing lodge buildings ready for transformation
Daily sunsets that inspire healing and hope
Nature's abundance surrounding the sanctuary
Four-Stage Recovery Program
Morning tranquility - where the journey of recovery begins
1. Rest
Most women live in constant fight-or-flight mode. Our first priority is teaching them how to rest, with nurses and support staff assisting with baby care.
2. Rejuvenation
Experiencing nature, engaging in activities, and focusing on physical wellness to begin shedding the weight of stress and trauma.
3. Re-engage
Now rested and healing, women can re-engage with who they are, who they want to be, and who they want their child to be. Autonomy and agency are especially important here.
4. Recover
With a stronger, healthier foundation, women engage in recovery work, healing, counselling, and trauma therapy.
Moments of reflection and personal growth
Comprehensive Support System
24/7 care in a home-like environment
Connection to the healing power of land and sea
Daily renewal surrounded by ancient wisdom
24/7 Professional Care
Round-the-clock supervision with doctors on weekly rotations, minimum two nurses available at all times, and maintenance staff on-site.
Cultural Connection
Elders and birth keepers provide traditional knowledge and cultural access. This program honors Indigenous strength and knowledge systems.
Holistic Therapy
Drug and alcohol counseling, trauma therapy, art therapy, and other interactive healing modalities available throughout the program.
Full Support Services
Professional cooking, housekeeping, and childcare support so mothers can focus entirely on their healing journey.
Our Development Timeline
Goal: Recovery by Nature hosts its first cohort of mothers and babies in 2028
2026
Critical Renovations
Safety upgrades to the lodge buildings and essential infrastructure improvements
2027
Program Development
Collaboration with Indigenous Elders, healthcare professionals, nature guides, and counselors to develop the program
2028
First Cohort
Recovery by Nature hosts its first cohort of mothers and babies
How Can You Help?
Every contribution brings us closer to opening this vital sanctuary where mothers and babies can heal together in a place of safety, dignity, and hope.
Visit our GoFundMe page to make a donation, or contact us for partnership opportunities. Follow our progress as we transform this vision into reality.
Donate on GoFundMe Become a PartnerFollow @recoverybynature to see progress with lodge renovations and program development!
Contact Us
Phone: 604-319-8184
Email: recoverybynature@gmail.com
"This program would serve the vulnerable population, but in an entirely different environment, away from the traumas of the city and the colonial system that we can see is not currently working, especially for indigenous women. This would be a chance to truly go back to the beginning and start over from the earth up."