Grandmothers Tea

Throughout my life, no matter the challenges, there was always one place I could find solace—around a warm cup of tea. In my grandmother’s home, the sound of the kettle was a sign that something special was about to happen. Whether it was her daughters, sisters, or granddaughters walking through the door, the tea was always ready. We would gather around, sip, and talk through whatever was on our minds. That simple ritual of making tea connected us, offering comfort in times of joy, heartbreak, and every moment in between.

As we spoke with people across Kamloops, we discovered this tradition was shared by many. In times of trouble or celebration, tea was the anchor. It did not matter where you came from—tea crossed cultural boundaries. Whether at family gatherings or community events, it brought people together. It was there in moments of laughter, gossip, and healing, helping to bridge generations with each cup poured.

At the Women's Centre, we carry this legacy forward with our noon-hour Tea Time. We have created a welcoming space where our community can connect, much like our grandmothers did. Over a shared pot of tea, stories are told, hearts are healed, and wisdom is passed down, continuing the traditions of the women who came before us. These women—our mothers, aunties, and sisters—instinctively knew that a warm cup of tea could mend the soul.

This November, in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we dedicate our Tea Time to honour all of our grandmothers, mothers, aunties, sisters, and good friends who are or were survivors of domestic violence, poverty, and mental health challenges. We honour both those who survived and those who have passed. In some way, every woman has been touched by the growing issue of violence against women and the social barriers that come with it. As women, we constantly face challenges to overcome these barriers in a society not designed for us, but through community, we aim to bridge that gap and build a future of support and empowerment.

Thanks to the generosity of our donors, we have been gifted with beautiful heirloom tea sets passed down through families, bringing with them over 65 teacups and saucers and four teapots that now grace our space. These legacy pieces tell their own stories, each one infused with love and history and a reminder that, as women, we can overcome anything. When you join us for tea, you will have the chance to read the legacy stories behind each set, beautifully framed in the room, honouring the women who nurtured generations with their wisdom and warmth.

Together, we continue this tradition, healing and supporting one another, just as our grandmothers did. For those who have never had such an experience, we aim to bring that experience of warmth to the centre - With every cup of tea, we create a moment of connection, a space for healing, and a chance to elevate each other.

“There is nothing better than a warm cup of tea.”

Written by Kathleen Larose,
Member of Interior Women’s Centre Society