Two cedar logs waiting to be carved at the Spirit Bear Centre in Abbotsford hint at the healing work that goes on the treatment centre. But the logs will sit untouched until the non-profit society sorts out it finances, said founder and executive director Lynn Ned.

The 10-bed residential treatment centre and shelter for aboriginal girls aged 13 to 18 opened in April 2008. It was much celebrated by Ned and local MLAs, whose government helped fund the start-up costs.

The centre's work is making a difference for its young clients, and Ned is planning to add a day program for its graduates this month.

But a chronic funding shortage forced her to lay off five full-time workers in August. In fact, Ned and two others will volunteer their time.

"We're going on day by day. Closing is not an option," she said.

While the SBC Society receives funding from the Ministry of Children and Family Development, the Ministry of Health, and Service Canada, it's not enough for what Ned wants to do at the centre. She said it currently has a deficit of more than $100,000.

MP Ed Fast and MLAs Rich Coleman and John van Dongen are big supporters, she said, and Ned hopes they can continue to help.

"Over and over again, we say we need services, but when we get the services, we can't get the funding. Why is that?" asks a frustrated Ned.

Van Dongen said he has encouraged Ned to develop strong networks with those in Fraser Health who fund youth addictions treatment.

He was optimistic that would bode well for the SBCS. A good relationship can help both sides understand their needs as well as financial realities, he said, noting that a global recession hit B.C. two years ago, which affected "virtually everyone in the province."

"I believe strongly in what they're doing, but there needs to be give and take. All parties have to work together," said van Dongen recently.

Each year, the Spirit Bear Centre Society takes in 10 First Nations girls from around B.C. and Canada for a year-long program.

The young women have addictions and are traumatized by a hard past that includes violence and sexual abuse.

Set in a serene, wooded acreage in the centre of Abbotsford, the rambling house is quiet and orderly. Outside, there is room to wander under the maples.

Along with regular high school classes, the licensed community care facility provides the young women with clinical counselling to help them overcome their addictions and trauma. There is daily routine and 24-hour supervision.

Two elders from the Squamish Nations visit regularly to re-acquaint the residents with their cultural roots. They drum, sing, and dance.

There is a sweat lodge on site, and a sewing room where the girls create their own regalia for powwows. Getting back in touch with their heritage is a big part of their recovery and healing experience.

For some, being at the centre is the first time they felt someone cared for them, said Ned.

"A lot are in foster care, or on the streets," she said. Most are at the centre voluntarily. Most are a long way from home, in many ways.

"Some of the girls have said 'Spirit Bear saved my life.' They've chosen to leave their communities. They say they want to break the cycle," Ned said.

Like a proud parent, she notes a recent graduate was invited to a four-week session for aboriginal youth at Emily Carr School of Art this summer, and is entering the fine arts program at the University of the Fraser Valley.

"That's what this place is all about," said Ned. "Their lives change here. Even when they leave, the kids still communicate with us, they keep reaching out."

The program is well supported by the community. The Abbotsford School District provides teachers, Vancouver Coastal Health sends nurse practitioners, Service Canada's homelessness program pays for the clinical counsellors.

The Mennonite Central Community's Ecoworks give the young women summer jobs. The local Salvation Army offers extra food every week.

Most recently, the SBCS received a donation from the Progenic Dental Lab in Oakville, Ont., to buy a portable classroom.

Ned hopes it will be ready by September for a day program for up to 15 SBCS alumni. The grads will continue their program and learn life and job prep skills.

Ned will continue lobbying government sources, but she is also seeking private and corporate sponsorships.

- Individuals can help, too. To find out more about the centre, visit www.spiritbearcenter.com or you can call Ned at 604-864-0553.