Environment & Animal WelfareFor individuals who have experienced homelessness or housing instability, moving into a new place is a huge step forward—but it’s only the first step in building a home that feels enjoyable, stable, and dignified. Transforming a space into a true home requires gathering household items, a process that can be both costly and time-consuming. For those transitioning, resources are often limited, making it difficult to obtain essential items.
To address this need, Amiko-giba’igan was created to support those transitioning out of homelessness, by providing essential household items at no cost. The space functions like a houseware store and offers a variety of items, including furniture, small appliances such as mini fridges, coffee machines and microwaves, along with mattresses, linens, kitchen items, cleaning supplies, and even décor. This gives those needing the supplies an opportunity to hand-select items, allowing them to craft a space they are proud of.
Beyond providing goods, Amiko-giba’igan plays a vital role in helping individuals feel settled and empowered in their new homes, which allows them to focus on other essentials, such as finding employment and accessing social services.
In the first 11 months, Amiko-giba’igan supported 126 individuals and six families. Remarkably, 80 percent of those who have accessed the houseware store have maintained housing six months after moving in.
The name ‘Amiko-giba’igan’ means beaver dam in Ojibwe. Beavers collect materials to build their dams, just like Amiko-giba’igan gathers household items to help people create homes for themselves. Beavers also symbolize wisdom because they illustrate to us that by working together, we can build stronger, healthier communities—making the name perfect for the space.
The Winnipeg Foundation is proud to support the Amiko-giba’igan project with a $100,000 grant. The grant helped Siloam Mission upgrade its 280 Princess Street building into the houseware store by renovating the space for storage and item selection. The space now emulates a real store, ensuring visitors feel welcome, comfortable and dignified as they shop.
The Winnipeg Foundation’s 2023-2026 Strategic Plan identifies a priority area in downtown Winnipeg called the Community Area for Revitalization and Equity (C.A.R.E.). Many of the city’s most vulnerable citizens live in this area and experience ongoing challenges. Amiko-giba’igan aligns with The Foundation’s goal of improving the well-being of people living in C.A.R.E., while also expanding the local network of community supports available.
Amiko-giba’igan thrives on community support, and your gifts can make a real difference. If you have new or gently used household items, consider contributing to help someone turn their space into a true home.
To donate goods or learn more, visit siloam.ca
