For immediate release
January 29, 2020
Treaty One Territory, Winnipeg, MB – Today is “Bell Let’s Talk Day,” a day when Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Inc. (MKO) is recognizing the importance of of mental wellness for First Nations in Northern Manitoba.
“Every action counts is the theme for this year’s Bell Let’s Talk Day, and I wholeheartedly agree with this sentiment,” stated Grand Chief Garrison Settee. “Every act of compassion goes a long way. It is incumbent upon every one of us to do our part to make sure that we reach out and support people who might be struggling with life problems, mental illness, and depression.”
MKO has several programs that help to address mental wellness issues for First Nations citizens. These are the Traditional Healers Program, our Client Navigator, Mental Wellness Teams, and our Mobile Crisis Response Team. Many of these services are available to all 63 First Nations in Manitoba. You can find more information about these programs on our website at www.mkonation.com.
“I want to take a moment today to remind our children and youth that they are valued and loved,” said Grand Chief Garrison Settee. “Mental wellness is such an important aspect of our overall health. The young people across MKO territory, and especially those from God’s Lake First Nation, are in my prayers as young people continue to heal from the impacts of intergenerational trauma caused by residential school, the Sixties Scoop, and the foster care system. MKO will continue to advocate for improved mental wellness services to help the children, youth, and adults in all Northern First Nations in the MKO Territory.”
Last week, the MKO Chiefs Task Force on Health signed a bylaw to create Keewatinohk Inniniw Minoayawin Inc., a new health entity will work to support the health and wellness priorities identified by First Nations in Northern Manitoba.
