SOWINS programs and services provide shelter, safety and support to individuals who have experienced, or are at risk of experiencing violence or abuse in the South Okanagan. Their service area covers Summerland to Osoyoos and Naramata to Keremeos. SOWINS was established in 1981 and is a federally registered charity and incorporated B.C. society governed by a volunteer board and an executive director who oversees the staff of more than 60 individuals. This compassionate group is dedicated to fostering a society where women and children can live free from violence and abuse. They strongly believe every person is an individual deserving respect and dignity and that abuse is a societal issue, not a private one, and we all have a collective responsibility to end community violence.