MCA discussion meetings held in Snye

The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne began advertising for a series of discussion meetings to be held in the Tsi Snaihne District in the coming weeks with one topic in mind: development of a Diagnostic & Wellness Center. These meetings are the initial interview with the community to answer the basic questions of ‘Is there a need for a clinic in Tsi Snaihne?’ and if so, ‘What services should that clinic offer?’

The structure of these meetings includes a casual dialogue between the community members within the age groups and the surveyors who are looking for feedback. It is not going to be strictly a show-up and fill out the blank questionnaire and leave session, instead MCA is looking for the community to have an honest discussion what the needs are for community members. The sessions are broken down into different age demographics so that the individuals participating in the discussions will be able to relate to each other’s needs. All comments made within the session will be kept confidential by the consulting firm that was retained to initiate and develop the feasibility report.

“We discussed many names on this topic, like the, ‘Snye Clinic’ or ‘Health Center’,” said Tsi Snaihne District Chief Karen Loran who is the primary contact on this project within the Health Portfolio. “We are really looking to develop something that is complimentary to what the other centers offer in Kana:takon and Kawehno:ke.”

The development of a feasibility study is a 6-phase approach that will incorporate community consultation and approval before it moves onto the next phase. This inclusion of input will create a health center that is truly owned by the community.

“When we first started talking with Department heads about bringing this project forward to the community it became clear that we need to develop a proactive approach to healthcare,” said Chief Loran. “It is all about practicing preventative medicine.”

The sessions for each age group are scheduled to take place at the Snye Homemakers on the following dates and times:

August 17th

Elders—10am

Teens—2pm

Ages 30 to 55—3pm

Ages 20 to 29—7pm

August 18th

Single Parents—10am

For more information contact the Mohawk Government Offices to speak with Council representatives at 613-575-2348.

“I think it is very important for the community to provide their input in this consultation,” said Chief Loran. “We value your input on these long awaited services that should address community need.”