Nogdawindamin Family and Community Services (Nogdawindamin) and Sault Area Hospital (SAH) have officially signed a Protocol Agreement, marking a significant milestone in advancing culturally appropriate, collaborative services for Indigenous families.
This agreement shows a shared commitment to the safety, well-being, and cultural identity of Indigenous children, youth, and families.
The agreement highlights several key objectives, including:
- Ensuring culturally safe and consistent care for Indigenous service users.
- Strengthening access to child protection, mental health support, and prevention programs while honoring family and community connections.
- Promoting mutual trust and understanding through open communication and education.
For more information, see the press release bellow.
Nogdawindamin Family and Community Services (Nogdawindamin) and Sault Area Hospital (SAH) proudly announce the formal signing of a Protocol Agreement, marking a significant milestone in advancing culturally appropriate, collaborative services for Indigenous families.
This agreement solidifies a shared commitment to the safety, well-being, and cultural identity of Indigenous children, youth, and families. Rooted in Anishnawbek teachings and traditions, the protocol establishes a clear framework for cooperation and communication between the two organizations.
By combining expertise in family and community support with healthcare services, Nogdawindamin and SAH aim to holistically address the needs of Indigenous families, fostering healing, resilience, and thriving communities.
The agreement highlights several key objectives, including:
- Ensuring culturally safe and consistent care for Indigenous service users.
- Strengthening access to child protection, mental health support, and prevention programs while honoring family and community connections.
- Promoting mutual trust and understanding through open communication and education.
During the signing ceremony, Karen Kennedy, Interim CEO of Nogdawindamin, emphasized the importance of this partnership. "This protocol is more than an agreement—it is a commitment to a shared pathway where Indigenous teachings guide our work. By honoring these traditions, we are ensuring that families are supported in ways that reflect their values and identities. Together, we are helping families heal, children thrive, and communities flourish."
The partnership is inspired by the Anishnawbek teaching of braided sweetgrass, symbolizing the past, present, and future. This collective commitment mirrors the concepts of friendship, partnership, and mutual trust. Like sacred medicines, the relationship will be nurtured over time, requiring respect, reciprocity, and care from both organizations.
"At Sault Area Hospital, we are taking small steps on a significant journey—one that, had history been better, might not be so necessary, and one we strive to advance with greater urgency. Our partnership with Nogdawindamin reflects a deep commitment to supporting families, fostering brighter futures, and creating compassionate, culturally centered care that strengthens our community." States Ila Watson, President and Chief Executive Officer – Sault Area Hospital.
Together, Nogdawindamin Family and Community Services and Sault Area Hospital reaffirm their dedication to empowering Indigenous families through collaboration and culturally aligned care. This agreement is a testament to what can be achieved when organizations stand united in purpose and vision.