Serpent River First Nation hosts 36th Annual Health Fair
By Leslie Knibbs
SERPENT RIVER FIRST NATION— Serpent River First Nation (SRFN) held its 36th Annual Health Fair at the Lifestyle Centre in Cutler, Ont., on May 16.
The event was organized by the Kenabutch Health Centre, with Community Nurses Ashley Middaugh and Ashley Sago being the key coordinators of the fair. According to Middaugh, there were 47 groups registered with displays and information booths, most of which work in collaboration with Kenabutch as partners providing health care to 11 Indigenous communities, as well as those living in Sault Ste. Marie.
The annual event continues to grow each year, drawing individuals and families along the North Shore and beyond, providing information and help with many health-related issues. Middaugh said that just over 100 individuals registered at the front desk to access information from the dozens of displays and interactive booths.
Outreach from a number of the information booths provides services to Atikameksheng Anishnawbek, Sagamok Anishnawbek, Serpent River, Mississauga #8, Thessalon, Garden River, Batchewana, Michipicoten, Chapleau Cree, Chapleau Ojibwe, and Brunswick House, urban Indigenous people in Sault Ste. Marie through the Indigenous Friendship Centre and Baawaating Family Health Team, as well as the Elliot Lake Friendship Centre.
The philosophy of healthcare is rooted in a holistic worldview, honouring the interconnectedness of community, families, and individuals being interdependent. According to Nogdawindamin Family and Community Services (NFCS), services and programs are based on traditional teachings and foster cultural identity and awareness.
One of the key participants in healthcare on the North Shore for Indigenous individuals and families is Maamwesying (North Shore Community Health Services), which provides Crisis Mental Health Services and Minobimaadizing Addiction Recovery Services. For more information on Maamawesying, contact them at mwmintake@maamwesying.ca or call 1-844-864-0523. Their crisis mental health services are available by phone, video, or in-person.
Middaugh spoke Health Fair following the event.
“The annual Serpent River Health Fair is an incredible opportunity for our community to come together, share knowledge, and focus on holistic wellness. Each year, it keeps growing, which really speaks to the dedication and passion of our community partners in promoting health and well-being. With a wide range of health professionals offering screenings, interactive booths, and engaging demonstrations, the fair continues to empower people to take charge of their health in a meaningful way. It’s inspiring to see how much impact we can create when we work together.”
For more information on the annual SRFN Health Fair, contact the Kenabutch Health Centre at 705-8442152 or email ashleysago@serpentriverfn.ca .