Aamjiwnaang (Chippewas of Sarnia First Nation)
Health Department
E’Mino Bmaad-Zijig Gamig provides health services in a holistic and culturally sensitive manner to all band and community members through promotion, prevention, protection and education. We encourage well being and healthy lifestyles through programs and services that meet the needs of individuals and families. We strive to empower members to take control of their own health through education, encouragement and support.
Director of Health Services – Sara Plain
Administrative Assistant – Peggy Rogers
Receptionist – Dorothy Gilbert
Clerk – Kim Waters
The Health Committee is made up of 2 Councillors and 3 community members. They meet on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month to work on policy, research and program design to ensure our services meet the changing needs of all community members.
The committee’s term is 2 years and members are chosen by Chief and Council.
Health Committee Members
Shawn Plain, Councillor
John Adams, Councillor
Jacky Cunningham, Community Member
Christine Plain, Community Member
Edna Cottrelle, Community Member
Sara Plain, Director of Health Services
Peggy Rogers, Health Administrative Assistant
Community Health Team
Community Health Nurse – Gail Nahmabin, RN
Gail Nahmabin is our Community Health Nurse. Gail can help you in many ways such as: immunizations, communicable/infectious disease control and surveillance, environmental health services ( i.e. house inspections for mould), preschool assessments, blood sugar/blood pressure checks, first aid, referrals, home visits, health counselling, health workshops, emergency preparedness and disaster planning, i.e. pandemic planning, non-insured health benefit inquiries, and will collaborate with other surrounding community partners on your behalf.
IMPORTANT NOTE – Gail is the only Nurse who can provide immunizations under Health Canada’s Medical Directive.
Health Promotion Worker – Natalie Nahmabin, PSW
The Health Promotion Worker works closely with the Community Health Nurse and Community Wellness Worker to promote healthy living.
She helps to facilitate or bring various workshops and educational sessions throughout the year for instance: physical activity, healthy eating and cultural teachings.
DIABETIC SUPPORT GROUP
This group meets on the 3rd Monday of every month. Classes are facilitated by a Dietitian from the Rapids Family Health Team and occasional guest speakers. Community members are given education and information so they can live long and well with diabetes, and hopefully delay or prevent the complications of diabetes. Transportation is available.
DIETITIAN
Sarah Kidd, RD from Rapids Family Health Team provides nutritional counselling on a weekly basis. She can help you achieve and maintain your personal health goals and develop a plan that best suits your needs enabling you to make healthy lifestyle changes. Group programs are also offered throughout the year including teen cooking, healthy eating, weight management and Kids in the Kitchen.
CHIROPODIST
Mike Garrett, D.Ch provides foot care services once every 3 weeks. Eligibility includes people with diabetes and others who have trouble caring for their feet for any reason.
SOUP KITCHEN
Available every 3rd Thursday of each month from 12 – 1 pm at the Health Centre. Community Members are welcome to come out to socialize and enjoy a free meal.
Primary Health Care
Twin Bridges Nurse Practitioner-Led Clinic – Aamjiwnaang Satellite
Currently accepting new patients. Wheelchair accessible.
Hours:
Monday 8:30-4:30
Wednesday 1:00-4:30
Thursday 8:30-4:30
Please call the Health Centre for information on becoming a new patient or to book an appointment.
What is a Nurse Practitioner?
Nurse Practitioners provide assessment, diagnosis, treatment and referral, similar to physicians. If you register with this clinic, the Nurse Practitioner will become your new primary care provider.
A nurse practitioner (NP) is a registered nurse with advanced university education who provides personalized, quality health care to patients. Ontario nurse practitioners provide a full range of health care services to individuals, families and communities in a variety of settings including hospitals and community-based clinics in cities and smaller towns in Ontario. They work in partnership with physicians, nurses and other health care professionals such as social workers, midwives, mental health professionals and pharmacists to keep you, your family and your community well.
A nurse practitioner can make referrals to appropriate services. As a member of your health care team, NPs can:
- Diagnose illness and injuries
- Perform physical check-ups
- Order and interpret diagnostic tests
- Provide counselling and education
- Provide treatment
- Order procedures
- Refer clients to other health care professionals and specialists
- Prescribe medication
- Manage chronic diseases such as diabetes, COPD and asthma
- Treat, transfer and discharge both in-patients and community out-patients from hospital
- Cast fractures and reduce dislocations
- Order blood products and oxygen
Mental Wellness Team
Mental Wellness Team Supervisor– Tracey George, BA, OATR, RP
Tracey George is the Mental Wellness Team Supervisor at the Aamjiwnaang Health Centre. She offers Art Therapy to children (4+), youth and adults. She is an intake and crisis counselor and mental health and addictions case manager. Therapeutically, Tracey practices with a holistic, client-centered, trauma-informed and harm reduction focus. Tracey works with those experiencing various challenges including living with loved ones experiencing substance use and dependence; mental illness in the family; anxiety, trauma, grief and abuse. Tracey is also trained in administering assessments required for attending treatment centers for addictions, specifically the Admission and Discharge Assessment Tools. She provides suicide intervention and crisis debriefing.
Community Wellness Worker – Roberta Bressette
Roberta is our Community Wellness Worker. Her focus is to provide family violence services, referrals, support and case management to clients to address existing and emerging health, healing and wellness issues. She also focuses on Prevention of Suicide and Bullying.
Roberta works to organize and facilitate community events, i.e. cultural awareness, education, illness prevention and crisis intervention workshops) as well as promotion for school age and other youth and seniors regarding healthy relationships, healthy bodies and healthy minds.
The Community Wellness Worker teams with other members of the Health Staff to provide education and support to community members. Some of the past years event highlights include: Kids Expo, Youth Casino Night, National Suicide Prevention Day Events, Sister’s in Spirit Vigil and the Faceless Doll Project, physical fitness programs for youth up to adult and seniors.
Addictions and Diversion Worker – Alphonse Aquash
Alphonse is available to help clients and families struggling with addiction. Services are provided in a supportive, encouraging and confidential environment. This includes court diversions, referrals and cultural programs such as Fasting Camps and Community Sweats and Men’s Wellness. The goal of the Diversion program is to facilitate pre-charge diversion through the development of client healing plans. Services include client intakes, referrals, community service arrangements, advocacy and case management. Alphonse also facilitates RedPath Living Without Violence and Addictions Programs.
Outreach Team – Rhona Stewart and Kayla Joseph
The Addictions Outreach Team focus on crisis intervention, support and referrals. They offer supportive services to families and those with substance use challenges. Rhona and Kayla liaise with Bluewater Health Indigenous navigator, BWH Withdrawal Management services and other mainstream services. Kayla offers services to youth and facilitates Girls Group and RedPath Living Without Violence and Addictions Programs. The Outreach Team facilitates the Family Support group and the Recovery Group once per week.
School Mental Wellness Workers – Max Cryderman (secondary) and Gabriella Macdonald (Elementary)
Max provides support to secondary school students. He spends time at Great Lakes Secondary, Alexander Mackenzie and Northern secondary schools. He helps students with mental health challenges, so they can focus on their studies. Max also facilitates the Young Men’s Group. Gabriella works in the Elementary schools. She visits our students who attend Aamjiwnaang Daycare, JK and SK, Sir John Moore, Lansdowne and Queen Elizabeth schools. She supports our students who are experiencing mental health challenges so they can return to the classroom, ready to learn.
TRADITIONAL HEALING PROGRAM
We offer appointments with traditional healers on a regular basis, in addition to sweats and educational workshops. Through our culture and traditional healing methods, healers, elders and medicine people help individuals, families and communities strive for balance and good health. They utilize a variety of approaches to healing which incorporate the mind, body, emotions and spirit. Currently visiting on a regular basis:
Wendy Hill
Richard Assinewai
Joanne Cheechoo
Elva Jamieson
GRIEF AND TRAUMA COUNSELLING
This service is provided by Life’s Seasons. Tina Hunter and Jenny Jolly are available to help you work through distressing experiences. Regardless of the kind of loss you’re facing, Tina can help guide you through your grief and help you learn healthy ways to cope with your trauma/loss. They provide confidential support for individuals, couples and families across the lifespan.
Christy Primmer offers mental health counselling services. She is a life coach for women, youth and adults. She is an advocate and empowers those who have experienced trauma, loss, lowered self-esteem and confidence. She will help you work through self-sabotaging behaviours and guide you towards self awareness and success in your life and career.
CANADIAN MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION
Jessica Joseph, RPN from the Canadian Mental Health Association is available at the Health Centre to provide support and case management for people with mental illness.
Family Well-Being and Mental Wellness Program Support – Amy Vandersteen
Amy coordinates events and activities for families which include PD Day and March Break activities, Cultural Crafts – Creative Native, and Women’s Wellness. She is also the administrative support of all Mental Wellness programs. Amy assists other health programs as well. She is the hub of the Mental Wellness Team.
ONGOING MENTAL WELLNESS PROGRAMS
- Women’s Wellness
- Men’s Wellness
- Girls Group
- Young Men’s Group
- Sweat Lodge – monthly
- Redpath Addictions and Living Without Violence programs – twice per year
- Addictions Family Support Group
- Recovery Group
Home and Community Care Program
Home and Community Care Administrator – Marcella Kudaka, RN
Home and Community Care Nurse– Elizabeth Cronk, RPN
Senior’s Errands Attendant – Billie-Jo Oliver – The Errands Attendant provides service primarily for residents of the Seniors Complex. Service may be extended to other seniors in the community based on individual and family circumstances.
This program provides home care and community services for people requiring assistance to continue to live a productive life in the familiar surroundings of their own home and community. The program promotes self-reliance, well-being, and support from family and community.
We have an excellent team of Personal Support and Home Support Workers who provide in-home services such as personal care and home management (light housekeeping, shopping and meal preparation).
Eligible clients include Aamjiwnaang band members who have a need for care (chronic disease, post-surgery, immobility, respite, frail, and elderly). Eligibility requirements include an in-home assessment by the program nurse. The care plan is developed by the nurse with input from the client and family.
Seniors Worker – Becky Adams
Our Seniors Program offers a variety of programs throughout the year such as Drop-In, craft workshops, shopping and game nights.
The Seniors Congregate Dining Program takes place on Wednesdays at the Community Centre. Free lunch is served to community members ages 55 and up. We sometimes have guest speakers and other special events and celebrations.
We also partner with the Youth Program to deliver activities for seniors and youth throughout the year. Community members really look forward to our annual Christmas celebrations.
Medical Loan Cupboard
We have a limited amount of medical equipment available for lending. Examples include crutches, canes, bath/toilet aids and wheelchairs. Availability of equipment depends on the community needs at the current time. We encourage community members to obtain their own equipment through government programs and are willing to help with or direct this process.
Healthy Babies/Healthy Children Program
Healthy Babies Healthy Children Coordinator – Malynda Maness-Henry, RECE
Healthy Babies Healthy Children Nurse – Joanne Culley, RN
Children don’t come with a book of instructions and it’s often hard to know what is best for them and how to keep them safe and healthy. The Healthy Babies/Healthy Children Program works with families to promote the development of the child and find ways to deal with the challenges parents face by sharing ideas and giving support.
The Healthy Babies/Healthy Children Team work together with Head Start Program to support families in the home and in the program groups. The team lead is MaLynda Henry, a Registered Early Childhood Educator with a Certificate in Infant & Toddler Guidance. The other team members are Tanya Aviles, Head Start Worker, a Registered Early Childhood Educator and Joanne Culley, a Registered Nurse with a Certificate in Infant Mental Health.
Home Visiting Component
The home visiting program uses a family centered model that ensures pregnant women and families with children up to 6 years old on Aamjiwnaang First Nation have access to supports that reflect their values, priorities, strengths, and preferences. Families and home visitors are equal partners working together toward a common goal.
Breastfeeding Buddies
Breastfeeding Buddies is a Mom-to-Mom Breastfeeding support Program. Trained volunteers are matched with breastfeeding moms. HB/HC program staff also have in-depth training to support the mom in breastfeeding.
Group Activities Component
WEEKLY PARENT GROUP ACTIVITIES
Weekly group activities (September to June) are open to parents and caregivers with children up to 6 years old. The group activities are geared to the interest of the parents and caregivers. Topics are related to parenting, nutrition, parent and child interaction, self-care and traditional teachings. Components of the CPNP (Canadian Prenatal Nutrition Program) have been integrated into the nutrition activities. Parents support other parents in this informal setting.
HEAD START DROP-IN
The Head Start Drop-In focuses on parent and child interactions for children up to the age of 6 years old (older siblings are welcome to join). Come play with us. Stay for the full time or come for part of the time. Some special events require sign up.
The Drop-In runs year round. Mondays 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (lunch included) and Wednesdays 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. (snack included).
NEW PARENTS GROUP
New Parents group is for expectant parents and parents with children 0-6 months old. Topics are related to new parents to be and parents with newborns. Topics may include: Prenatal Classes, Breastfeeding, Making Moss Bags; Memory Bears; Infant Massage, Baby Moccasins, Baby Food Making, etc.
ULTIMATE FATHERS CARING GROUP
The fathers group has activities for fathers, grandfathers and male caregivers with children up to 6 years old. Topics vary. Activities usually include the children.
FASD Prevention Program
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder is preventable by not drinking if you are planning a pregnancy. Or if you are not planning a pregnancy, drinking alcohol and having sex—it is important to use birth control. Our campaign slogan is, “It is just not worth the risk!” The key message: that during pregnancy there is No safe amount of alcohol, No safe alcohol, and No safe time to drink alcohol. Information is provided throughout the year regarding prevention of FASD. We are partners with Union of Ontario Indians and Southwest Ontario Aboriginal Health Access Centre to provide resources. Supports are available for pregnant women dealing with addictions to alcohol and/or drugs or have a child with FASD.
NIHB & Medical Transportation
The Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) Program provides coverage for a limited range of medically necessary goods and services for eligible First Nations individuals. It may repay some or all of the costs incurred when health care programs, products or services are purchased. This includes a range of medical, dental and pharmacy services when they are not covered by provincial or other third-party health plans.
Benefits of the NIHB Program include:
- Drugs
- Dental
- Medical Supplies and Equipment
- Medical Transportation
- Eye & Vision Care
- Short-term Crisis Intervention Mental Health Counselling
- Chiropractic Care
Important Client Information
When you call or see a health care provider, there things you need to keep in mind to make sure you don’t end up with out of pocket expenses.
Please ask the provider if:
- They bill directly to the NIHB Program and/or,
- If the service is an eligible benefit with the NIHB Program.
If you are asked to pay up front or told an item or service isn’t covered, please call for assistance. There are times you may be able to request an exception or make an appeal.
For help navigating the NIHB Program, you can contact:
Aamjiwnaang Health Centre – Heather Robertson, Nurse
NIHB Client Information Line at 1-800-640-0642. Please have your 10-digit status number ready.
NIHB Dental Client Information Line at 1-888-283-8885
Medical Transportation Program
This program provides volunteer Contract Drivers or private mileage to attend medical appointments funded by OHIP or NIHB. Trips to pick up prescriptions at the pharmacy are not eligible.
Aamjiwnaang Food Bank
Monday’s – 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 pm
Thursday’s – 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
No one wants to use a Food Bank. People in Canada are forced to ask for help when they have nowhere else to turn, and when they face the worst imaginable circumstance: Not having enough to eat.
Why is this happening? Here’s what we know. Federal and Provincial cuts to social assistance programs, the rise in living costs and lack of affordable housing throughout Ontario all have contributed to families not having enough. We are here to help!
Telemedicine
We offer access to the Ontario Telemedicine Network. A telemedicine appointment is just like a regular medical appointment, only the specialist you will be seeing and speaking with is on a monitor. There is a video camera and monitor at each end, so you can see each other. Some popular examples include appointments with psychiatrists and dermatologists. It is also used for family visits with loved ones who are attending treatment outside the community. Some correctional facilities also offer family visits through telemedicine.
Wheelchair Accessible Van
Aamjiwnaang First Nation now has a wheel-chair accessible van which can provide transportation services to persons with a physical functional mobility challenge. Anyone who is unable to or finds it difficult to use conventional transit due to their mobility issues will be able to access this van.
The van may be used for the following purposes:
- Medical appointments – we can provide a Medical Driver.
- Personal outings (shopping, visits, etc.) – you provide your own driver
- Community outings during regular business hours – a driver may be provided if available.
Who can drive the van?
All drivers need to be approved and trained by the Public Works department. If you would like to add a family member or friend as a driver, please contact the Public Works department at 519-336-0510.
How do I book the van?
To book the van, please contact the Health Centre at 519-332-6770. Please call ahead to ensure availability. Medical appointments may take priority over other bookings.
Is there a cost?
There is no cost to use the van locally. If you travel more than 40 kms from Aamjiwnaang, you need to replace the fuel you used.
Source: https://www.aamjiwnaang.ca/health-department-2/
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Bus Driver – Student Transportation
The Aamjiwnaang First Nation Education Department is currently seeking a school Bus Driver, to provide transportation to students who reside on the Aamjiwnaang First Nation and attend the Kindergarten program, public school and other educational institutions.
Housing Case Manager
This position is responsible for establishing permanent housing and supporting Indigenous and other Housing Clients who have a serious mental illness and are homeless or at risk of being homeless.
Personal Support Worker (PSW)
To deliver homecare to the Aamjiwnaang First Nation community members.
Human Resources Officer
Reporting to the Band Manager the Human Resources Officer is primarily responsible to support staff and management on policy interpretations and grievance matters; conducts recruitment and selection processes and provides progressive and expert HR guidance to all levels of staff on policy and legislation interpretation, providing solutions to a wide spectrum of complex HR issues.