The program in Hollow Water, an Anishnabe community in Manitoba grew out of Anishnabe ways of healing relationships and a deep desire to help the abused children and to stop the cycle of sexual abuse that gripped that community. Staff are given someone in the families affected to be with. Two team leaders confront the person who people say committed the offence. But it is ultimately a safe and kind place for everyone.
People begin to relate in a new way.
The process takes at least 3 years. We are a product of our relationships. There has been not one trial on a sexual offence in Hollow Water since the program has been operating. No children have been subjected to witness stands and the trauma testifying in court produces. Nova Scotia has set up a five stage system.