We’re fundraising to support our dear friend and community leader Joyce Carpenter as she prepares for shoulder surgery on August 14 and begins a six-month recovery journey. Joyce lives in social housing and, like many Elders and matriarchs in our community, navigates mobility challenges and limited income while continuing to give so much of herself to others.

Joyce is a loving mother of five and a proud grandmother of seven. She has dedicated her life to justice and healing for Indigenous communities, particularly around the MMIWG2S+ crisis. Her powerful voice, unwavering heart work, and deep wisdom have brought people together across generations to grieve, organize, and heal. From her time at Indian and Northern Affairs to her volunteer work at the Native Women’s Resource Centre and Council Fire, Joyce has always shown up—with truth, with strength, and with love.

But now, Joyce needs support.

Due to long waitlists and strict government eligibility criteria, Joyce is not guaranteed consistent in-home help, accessible transportation, or meal support after surgery. She will need assistance with everyday tasks like getting groceries, preparing food, attending medical appointments, and managing pain and mobility.

We are organizing a community circle of care for Joyce and launching this fundraiser to cover:

• Accessible transportation (e.g. Wheel-Trans gaps, Uber, Presto)

• Home support (cleaning, groceries, light PSW help)

• Medical and mobility supplies

• Meals and household needs during recovery

• An emergency cushion for unexpected costs

Fundraising goal: $5,000

Joyce has spent her life amplifying the voices of others. Let’s come together now to uplift hers—by ensuring her basic needs are met with dignity, care, and respect during this healing time.

Chi-miigwetch / thank you so much for any support you can offer—whether it’s a donation, a share, or a kind word.