Community, Connection, and Collective Care
May is a time to reflect on the importance of community, well-being, and inclusion. Across Nova Scotia, Women’s Centres continue to support individuals and families through programming, advocacy, and safe spaces grounded in care and connection. This month brings a focus on mental health, community engagement, and equity — all of which are central to the work happening across our network every day. The work of Women’s Centres is rooted in care, connection, and community. This May, we recognize the importance of supporting one another, amplifying voices, and continuing to build spaces where everyone feels safe and valued.
Thank you to all the Centres, staff, volunteers, and community members who make this work possible.
Mental Health & Community Well-Being
May marks Mental Health Awareness Month, offering an opportunity to recognize the importance of emotional well-being and access to support.
Across Women’s Centres, this work is ongoing — from providing safe spaces for conversation, to connecting individuals with resources, to fostering environments where people feel seen, heard, and supported.
Mental health is deeply connected to community. When people have access to care, connection, and understanding, stronger and healthier communities can grow.
What’s Happening Across Women’s Centres
Throughout May, Women’s Centres are engaging in a range of activities that reflect the diverse needs of their communities.
Many Centres are recognizing important awareness dates such as Red Dress Day on May 5, honouring Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit people, and the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia on May 17, which highlights the importance of inclusive and safe spaces for all.
Centres are also participating in community-based events and partnerships that help strengthen local connections and increase access to resources and support.
For example, The Lotus Centre will be participating in community events such as Flora’s Walk and the Millbrook Health Fair, contributing to awareness, visibility, and community engagement.
Key Dates & Awareness in May
May 5 – Red Dress Day (MMIWG2S+)
A day to honour Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit people, and to continue advocating for justice, safety, and systemic change.
May 15 – International Day for Families
This day highlights the important role families play in supporting well-being and building strong communities. It also recognizes the diversity of family structures and the importance of creating inclusive spaces where all families feel supported.
Across Women’s Centres, this is reflected in the work being done to support individuals and families through programs, services, and community connections that foster belonging and stability.
May 17 – International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOTB)
A reminder of the importance of creating inclusive, safe, and supportive communities for all individuals, regardless of identity.
Mental Health Awareness Month
A time to prioritize well-being, reduce stigma, and encourage open conversations around mental health.
Health Awareness in May
May also highlights Vision Health Month and Speech & Hearing Month, which bring attention to the importance of accessible, inclusive, and preventative health care.
These awareness initiatives emphasize the need for early intervention, regular check-ups, and equitable access to services for individuals experiencing vision, speech, or hearing challenges.
For many communities, barriers to accessing these supports — whether geographic, financial, or systemic — can have a significant impact on overall well-being. Raising awareness helps ensure that more individuals are informed, supported, and able to access the care they need.
Resources & Learn More
Throughout May, we encourage continued learning and engagement around the key awareness themes highlighted above:
Red Dress Day (May 5)
Learn more about how to support Indigenous communities:
Native Women’s Association of Canada
IDAHOTB (May 17)
Explore ways to support 2SLGBTQIA+ communities:
Mental Health Awareness Month
If you or someone you know is looking for support:
International Day for Families
Learn more about families and community well-being:
Staying Connected Across Centres
As part of ongoing efforts to strengthen collaboration and visibility across the network, we are working to build a shared calendar of activities and events. This will help align communications and create opportunities for Centres to share unified messaging where themes and priorities overlap.
If your Centre has upcoming events, awareness activities, or campaigns you would like included in future communications, please feel free to share them.
Learn More & Stay Engaged
We continue to share updates, stories, and insights from across Women’s Centres.
Visit our website to explore more: https://womenconnect.ca/news/