BC’s Ministry of Health is providing Lheidli T’enneh First Nation with $500,000 so it can carry out a feasibility study to help design a new service hub for children and youth in the region.
A government media release issued Wednesday, May 7 said that the announcement builds on previous engagement between the province and the First Nation on developing a new centre of excellence for children and youth in the north.
The study will develop a description of what services are needed at the centre and how they fit in with services that already exist in the north.
“That consultation and engagement concluded there is a demand for more holistic, equitable and culturally safe wellness supports for children and youth that are connected and build on existing programs and services in communities,” the release said.
The release also said that Lheidli T’enneh carried out a three-month consultation process with municipalities, other First Nations and individuals with knowledge and expertise on child and youth development.
Through that process, Lheidli T’enneh Chief Dolleen Logan said in the release, it was determined that there was a clear need to meet children and youth where they are.
“Phase 2, focused on feasibility, will inform how this project may come to life, the services, care, and programs needed, as well as location and infrastructure needs,” Logan said.
“This is critical work we are pleased to lead with support from government, First Nations Health Authority, Northern Health, and others with a direct interest in seeing youth at the centre of future care options.”
Also in the release, Health Minister Josie Osborne said that investing in youth is also investing in the future.
“Ensuring they get the culturally appropriate supports and programs they need now will lead to healthier lives for children and youth, laying a foundation for healthier future generations,” Osborne said.
“Lheidli T’enneh has been leading the project to better support youth in the North, and through this feasibility study, their collaboration with partners will help determine the best services that children and youth need.”
Partnering with Lheidli T’enneh on the projects are Northern Health, the First Nations Health Authority and the BC Government.
First Nations Health Authority CEO Monica McAlduff said that her organization is hearing a need for more child and youth supports in the north.
“We are excited to work with Lheidli T’enneh First Nation and the province to bring more accessible and more appropriate care to our young ones – to our future.,” McAlduff said.
The feasibility study is expected to be completed later this year.
