Where Dignity Meets
Structure for Lasting Change

Our Purpose

The Anawim Companions Society exists to support the healing of those living in physical, emotional, spiritual and social poverty, through compassion, empowerment, love and respect.

Our approach is rooted in the belief that people deserve more than temporary relief—they need a supportive environment that fosters genuine transformation, personal responsibility, and lasting independence.

What Makes Us Different

While most social services focus on harm reduction, Anawim offers a different path—a substance-free community that prioritizes safety, stability, and sobriety.

Shield with a keyhole symbolizing security and protection.

Safety

We provide a secure, welcoming environment where people can heal from past trauma and focus on rebuilding their lives without fear. True safety creates the foundation for all other progress.

Scales of justice representing fairness and accountability.

Stability

Through consistent routines, clear expectations, and reliable support, we help people establish the stability necessary to regain confidence and develop healthy patterns for the future.

Sun rising over a winding path, symbolizing hope and new beginnings.

Sobriety

Our substance-free environment enables clear thinking and intentional choices. We believe sobriety creates the space for authentic connection, personal growth, and meaningful transformation.

Our Work Continues Through Your Generosity

Anawim's unique approach to creating lasting change depends entirely on the support of donors who share our vision. Unlike many programs, we receive no government funding.

Your donation directly helps provide:


  • Safe, substance-free housing for men and women

  • Daily meals and essential services for drop-in guests

  • Support staff who facilitate genuine transformation

  • Maintenance of our facilities and programs

When you support Anawim, you're not just providing temporary relief—you're investing in real transformation that benefits individuals and our entire community.

Our Name Reflects Our Mission

Anawim is a Hebrew word that means "the humble, the afflicted, and the oppressed who place their trust in something greater than themselves."


In ancient Jewish tradition, the Anawim were those who remained faithful despite suffering hardship, living with humility and reliance on community and compassion rather than wealth or power. They recognized their need for support and connection.

This concept aligns deeply with our mission, reflecting our commitment to uplifting those who are struggling, offering them dignity, hope, and a path to renewal through a supportive community.

Our Leadership Team

Caricature illustration of Jefferey Baergen, Executive Director

Jeffrey Baergen
Executive Director
(Read More...)


Caricature illustration of Daisy August, Program Manager

Daisy August
Program Manager – Susan’s Place
(Read More...)


Caricature illustration of Stacey Gillespie, Program Manager

Stacey Gillespie
Program Manager – Anawim House 
(Read More...)


Our Board of Directors

  • Caricature illustration of Joshua Bixby, Board of Directors

    Joshua Bixby

    President of the Board of Directors
    Entrepreneur, Investor, Social Impact Advocate
    (Read More...)


  • Caricature illustration of Margaret Sasges, Board of Directors

    Margaret Sasges, K.C.

    Member of the Board of Directors
    Lawyer; conservation, wills, estates, and trusts
    (Read More...)


  • Caricature illustration of Debra Prior, Board of Directors

    Debra Prior

    Member of the Board of Directors
    Director of Community Relations
    (Read More...)


  • Caricature illustration of Andy Spurling, Board of Directors

    Andy Spurling

    Member of the Board of Directors
    Owner and president of Proline Management Ltd.
    (Read More...)


  • Caricature illustration of Margaret Sasges, Board of Directors

    Helen Pedneault

    Member & Treasurer of the Board of Directors
    Retired - Gov. of British Columbia
    (Read More...)


  • Caricature illustration of Sister Joyce Harris, Board of Directors

    Sister Joyce Harris

    Member of the Board of Directors
    Sister of St. Ann, Advocate, Psychologist
    (Read More...)


  • Caricature illustration of Tony Baker, Board of Directors

    Tony Baker

    Member of the Board of Directors
    Management Consultant and Business Owner
    (Read More...)


  • Caricature illustration of Karen Wysiecki, Board of Directors

    Karen Wysiecki

    Secretary of the Board of Directors
    Retired Registered Psychiatric Nurse
    (Read More...)


Learn more about our services

Discover how we support recovery, connection, and growth through a range of wraparound services.