ONFC Annual Report

HEALING AND WELLNESS
Program Description:
The Healing and Wellness Program focuses on the improving Indigenous health and reduction of family violence, which is
achieved through the provision of services for those most at risk, notably women and children.
How we adjusted our Program to deal with COVID-19:
Land-based programs continue to be delivered at the Davalon Healing Centre. A maximum of four people plus the driver in the
van at all times. Many programs are being delivered by Zoom such as Wellbriety, and socially distanced one-on-one meetings.
Partnerships:
Report Contributor: Jennifer Kohoko
• Mental Health and Addictions Services of Ottawa
• Davalon Healing Centre
• Toronto Writers Collective
• Wellbriety
• Correctional Service of Canada – Section 84s
• The City of Ottawa
• Jumpstart Canadian Tire
• National Coalition for Mental Health Recovery
• Somerset West Community Health Centre
• Wabano
• White Bison Inc.
• The Children’s Aid Society of Ottawa
Success Story:
• Aided a Wellbriety client in registering for treatment at the Gwekwaadziwin Miikan Youth Mental Health & Addiction
Program. She completed the three-month program between January – April 2021, and continues her journey on the Red
Road. While there, she was able to connect to her cultural practices and beliefs by receiving her name, a hand drum and
participate in various ceremonies such as sweat lodge.
• Equine Therapy/Psychotherapy sessions continue to run at the Davalon Healing Centre as it was deemed an essential
service by the Ontario government. The Healing and Wellness Program purchased a new tipi that will be set up at
the Davalon Healing Centre where therapy sessions and cultural teachings will be held. We are still able to provide
transportation with the essential driver letter provided by Odawa in January 2021.
• The Healing and Wellness Program was able to purchase a drum to use for community use once we are able to open up
again. The traditional birthing ceremony will be done by Wayne Mackenzie of Temiskaming First Nation with his drum
group. While at Odawa, he will provide a painting workshop for clients as well.
• Helped Elder Thomas Louttit build new sweat lodge. Teachings were provided as well as the technical aspect. This lodge
is used for teaching culture to people who may not have previous knowledge, beginners welcome.
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