Tupa’s Lodge

Supporting Indigenous Mothers

Indigenous Mothers’ Second-Stage Parenting & Life Skills Program – A Program of Ki-Low-Na Friendship Society

Welcome to Tupa’s Lodge, located within the unceded territory of the Syilx/Okanagan Nation, colonially known as Kelowna, BC.

“Tupa,” meaning great-grandmother in nsyilxcən, reflects the spirit of guidance, wisdom, and generational strength that anchors this home. Indigenous Elders and cultural supports are an important part of the program, offering connection to teachings, traditions, and community.

About the Program

Tupa’s Lodge is an Indigenous Mothers’ Second-Stage Parenting & Life Skills Program designed for mothers and their children (newborn to age 8) who are rebuilding stability following experiences such as domestic violence, homelessness, or recovery stabilization.

The program operates within a small communal home environment, accommodating up to four families at a time (maximum of eight residents). This intentional setting supports connection, shared responsibility, and individualized support.

Tupa’s Lodge is a structured second-stage program, typically running up to 12 months (with possible extension), where mothers engage in communal living, life skills development, and parenting growth with the goal of transitioning into independent living and long-term stability.

This is not an emergency shelter or detox facility.

Indigenous Foundation

Tupa’s Lodge is grounded in Indigenous values and holistic wellness teachings. The program is guided by a Medicine Wheel framework, supporting balance across the mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of life.

We recognize that trauma, violence, addiction, and instability impact all areas of a person’s well-being. Through structure, routine, cultural connection, and personal accountability, mothers are supported in restoring balance and strengthening their role within their families and community.

Women-Centered Approach

Tupa’s Lodge is a mother-centered program.

While children reside with their mothers, the focus of the program is to support the mother in strengthening her parenting, life skills, and overall stability. We do not provide childcare or direct child-focused services our role is to support the mother so she can support her children.

Program Structure

As a second-stage program operating under Ki-Low-Na Friendship Society and BC Housing requirements, Tupa’s Lodge provides a safe, structured, and supportive living environment, including:

24-hour support from on-site staff
Communal living with shared responsibilities
Regular program participation focused on life skills, parenting, and personal growth
A drug- and alcohol-free environment
Individualized goal planning and support

This structure is designed to promote stability, accountability, and long-term success.

Our Mission

Our mission is to support Indigenous mothers in rebuilding their lives by strengthening parenting, developing life skills, and restoring balance through a culturally grounded second-stage program.

Through consistent support, structure, and connection to culture, we work alongside mothers as they move toward independence, stability, and well-being for themselves and their children.

A Program of Ki-Low-Na Friendship Society

Tupa’s Lodge is a pilot program of Ki-Low-Na Friendship Society, a non-profit Indigenous-led organization that provides wrap-around services and supports to the urban Indigenous community in Kelowna, BC.

Application and Referral Process:

Apply here: Tupas Lodge Application Form

Institutions interested in referring potential participants can contact us via email to learn about our referral procedures and the information needed to join the waitlist and become a candidate for the intake process.

Contact Information:

Email: tupaslodge@kfs.bc.ca
Phone/Fax: +1 (236) 763-0778

The Ki-Low-Na Friendship Society respectfully acknowledges that it is located in the beautiful Central Okanagan Valley, located in the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territories of the Okanagan Nation (Syilx People).