"Community's Compassion Shelters Family Every Step of Painful Journey" -Winnipeg Free

Following the disappearance and murder of Christine Wood two and a half years ago, the trial began for man who had been accused in her death. Over the course of the two week long proceedings, Candace House hosted Christine's parents, George and Melinda Wood, and other family and relatives, providing a place of safety and refuge during the day.

Working closely with partners, Candace House was a meeting place in the mornings before court to have a snack and cup of coffee, and to smudge and pray. At lunch, all would gather to share a meal and take a moment to catch their breath before going back. Following the close of proceedings each day, family and support staff would make the short walk back to Candace House and gather again to debrief, ask questions and share thoughts and prayers with each other.

Supporters, family, Candace House staff, and George and Melinda Wood at Candace House.

Following a guilty verdict and the close of the trial, George and Melinda addressed the media before returning again to Candace House. Winnipeg Free Press reporter, Melissa Martin, was invited by the family to join and shared her experience with readers...

"After the verdict, Christine’s family and supporters gathered at Candace House, a refuge for those touched by violence that’s a short walk from the courthouse. Every seat in the place was taken. Staff put on coffee next to plates of moose stew and fried pickerel from the north that one supporter had brought with her.

For over an hour, they shared stories, looked at photos, or just held each other. Over the low hum of conversation, occasional bursts of laughter rang out at one end of the room or another. Even the air seemed to grow lighter, as if cleared of an invisible mist that had weighed it down: Christine's memory can fly free, now."

Read the full article online or in PDF format.

Candace House would like to acknowledge the incredible staff and supports from various organizations and agencies who continue to provide critical support to victims of crime. We are honoured to work together with you. This includes Victim Services, Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO), Ka Ni Kanichihk, National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, Manitoba Moon Voices, community elders, Assembly of First Nations (AFN), Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC), Snowflake Place, Canadian Centre for Child, and Winnipeg Police Services.