Tsawaayuus (Rainbow Gardens): A Culturally Safe Home for Indigenous Elders

Tsawaayuus (Rainbow Gardens), operated by The WestCoast Native Health Care Society, began with a vision in 1985 to create a safe, culturally grounded space for Indigenous elders. With initial funding from NEDC and a mortgage in recent years, the facility opened in 1992 and has since expanded, now offering long-term care, assisted and independent living for elders. Today, around 30% of residents and staff are Indigenous, a demonstration of the commitment to the Society’s original mission to be a unique, responsibly managed multi-level care facility that provides holistic, culturally competent care in a family-like environment with an emphasis on Indigenous people.