News release

Rotary Club of Smithers supports Auntie’s Kitchen

January 15, 2026 - Smithers, BC, British Columbia
From: Smithers RCMP

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Auntie’s Kitchen is a victim services led healing program created by Shannon William, our Police Based Victim Services worker in the Smithers RCMP Detachment. The Rotary Club of Smithers donated $14,500 last night to support the program.

Shannon William accepted the donation on behalf of the Northern Society for Domestic Peace last evening. The donation recognizes the vital role victim services plays in supporting healing and prevention alongside policing. The funds will directly support Auntie’s Kitchen, a safe and welcoming space focused on healing and connection for women and children affected by violence. This support will help sustain and expand workshops that give women the time, space, and support needed to heal, build confidence, and reconnect with their strengths.

“Auntie’s Kitchen shows how important it is to have services alongside policing, where connection can help prevent crises and support families as they rebuild,” said Staff Sergeant Ryan Law, Detachment Commander of the Smithers RCMP.

Through her work in Victim Services, Shannon identified a gap in meaningful connection for women with shared lived experiences and created Auntie’s Kitchen in response. Through conversation based workshops, participants explore topics such as grief and loss, healthy relationships, food preservation, and communication styles, while building confidence and a sense of belonging.

“These funds will help to keep the program running and allow my dream to expand to support more women and youth,” said Shannon William. “Auntie’s Kitchen empowers participants to heal, grow, and reach their full potential. The women who take part are cycle breakers, creating safer and healthier futures for themselves, their families, and their communities,” added Shannon William.

“It was powerful to witness Shannon speak from the heart about what Auntie’s Kitchen means to her and to the women she supports,” said Constable Jocelyn Foidart, Media Relations Officer with the Smithers RCMP. 

Shannon’s work continues to make a meaningful difference by building trust, strengthening partnerships, and supporting healing in our community.

For more information about Auntie’s Kitchen, or to learn about future opportunities to participate, contact Shannon William at the Smithers RCMP Detachment.

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